A controversial new program by the Arizona Department of Public Safety is now underway, where 100 mobile photo vans and fixed cameras are automatically scanning for speeders, and issuing tickets through the mail.

In a concession to critics, traffic tickets issued by these automated systems will not be subject to points that can impact your license status, or insurance rates. According to statements issued, if you simply pay the speeding fines ($165 plus a 10% surcharge), no other fees or penalties are assessed.

Gov. Janet Napolitano shrugged off suggestions that this is a pure revenue driven effort. She claims that statistics show that when these camera systems are deployed, accidents go down, and public safety is enhanced.

Update: Much more here.