Rep. Eric Burlison Advocates for 'Flock-Off Act' to Restrict Automated License Plate Readers
Republican Rep. Eric Burlison of Missouri, alongside Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, has introduced the 'Flock-Off Act' at the federal level. This proposed legislation aims to prohibit the use of federal funds for the purchase or operation of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs). Furthermore, it mandates that any entities currently receiving federal funds for ALPRs would have 180 days to dismantle their existing systems. This initiative is part of a broader, bipartisan movement to curb the proliferation of ALPR technology, which critics argue constitutes warrantless mass surveillance. The pushback against these camera networks, particularly those from Flock Safety, has gained traction across various political spectrums, with officials at state and local levels also taking action to restrict or remove these devices. For instance, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has blocked state agencies from spending on these cameras, and Florida's Department of Transportation revoked permits for them on state highways.
