Surveillance cameras spark bipartisan privacy debate in U.S

The use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology, specifically brands like Flock Safety, has sparked a bipartisan debate in the United States regarding privacy and government surveillance. While law enforcement agencies defend the cameras as essential tools for public safety and locating missing persons, critics argue they allow for the tracking of law-abiding citizens.

In Congress, several legislative efforts have emerged to address these concerns. Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) has introduced legislation to halt camera installation without a warrant, and the Florida Department of Transportation has banned them on state roads. Bipartisan efforts include the “No Flock Act,” proposed by Representatives Michael Cloud (R-TX) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), and the “Flock-Off Act,” sponsored by Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), which seeks to restrict federal funding for such technology.

Local tensions also persist, as seen in Hanover, New Hampshire, where residents expressed concern over potential surveillance. However, local officials clarified that the town uses GRIDSMART video detection systems for traffic management rather than ALPR cameras, noting that New Hampshire law strictly limits the use and retention of license plate data.