Texas Congressman introduces federal legislation to regulate surveillance cameras

Texas Congressman Keith Self has introduced federal legislation aimed at regulating the use of surveillance technology, specifically targeting systems like Flock cameras. The proposed Protecting Rights in Video and Equipment Acquired Discovery (PRIVACY) Act seeks to address privacy concerns regarding cameras that capture vehicle license plates and location data.

The legislation includes three primary components: a requirement for federal law enforcement to obtain a warrant before accessing or querying surveillance data, a 30-day limit on data retention (with specific exceptions for prosecutions), and restrictions on using federal funds to purchase or install intrusive surveillance technologies.

The move follows recent actions in Texas, where Governor Greg Abbott ordered state agencies to stop using state funds for Flock cameras, amid ongoing debates between law enforcement officials, who credit the technology with solving crimes, and privacy advocates who argue it violates civil rights.