Rhode Island Governor orders pause on new license plate reader cameras

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has ordered a 60-day pause on the installation and activation of new automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras across the state. The move is intended to facilitate a review aimed at establishing uniform standards for the technology and the management of the data it collects.

McKee stated that while ALPRs are valuable tools for law enforcement to solve crimes and locate missing persons, the state must address legitimate public concerns regarding privacy and transparency. The review will be conducted by the Department of Public Safety and Colonel Darnell Weaver, in consultation with various stakeholders including the Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association and the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns.

During this period, the State Police will not activate additional cameras, though existing ones will continue to operate under current policies. McKee has also requested that municipalities pause new installations, though this request is non-binding. Following the review, recommendations will be presented to the General Assembly to potentially codify these standards into law.