U.S. Rep. Keith Self Proposes Legislation Requiring Warrants for Federal Access to Flock Camera Data Amid Privacy Concerns
Republican U.S. Rep. Keith Self has introduced legislation that would mandate federal agencies obtain warrants before accessing data collected by AI-powered Flock cameras. This proposal comes in the wake of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's decision to block state funding for these surveillance devices due to mounting privacy concerns. Self emphasized that the Fourth Amendment right to privacy should not be eroded by new technologies like artificial intelligence. Flock cameras are advanced license plate readers that use AI to track and store detailed vehicle characteristics, including make, model, color, and even bumper stickers or dents. Law enforcement agencies utilizing these cameras can share data, creating a vast national network. The Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority in Texas had facilitated the installation of over 3,200 Flock cameras since 2023, partly funded by a 2023 law intended to combat catalytic converter theft, a purpose not initially discussed for these cameras. Growing bipartisan opposition ... 
