CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. —  A judge in Chattanooga (search) is allowing traffic violators to make tsunami relief donations (search) instead of paying fines.

Municipal Court Judge Russell Bean (search) began the offer yesterday and plans to continue for at least two weeks.

The judge said he thought this would be a good way for people to make a difference.

Defendants must provide proof of their donation and that it benefits victims of the natural disasters.

However, some say that while Bean's gesture is admirable, it might not be legal.