DATA CENTERS AREN’T THE ONLY TARGET OF THE GROWING ANTI-TECH BACKLASH. The next subject of bipartisan skepticism appears to be automated license plate readers, or ALPRs.

These motion-activated cameras take pictures, then use AI to determine the plate number, make, and model of vehicles (and maybe even more information). Flock, a well-known ALPR manufacturer, says the information can create a valuable database for law enforcement to catch criminals. But a growing list of abuses, such as stalking by law enforcement officials with access to the data, on top of general privacy concerns, has spawned grassroots opposition to the devices.   

At least six bills have been introduced in the legislature to place limits on such systems, all in the state House. Half were introduced beginning in mid-July, and two already have bipartisan support. Such backing follows something of a trend in the state House, whose chaotic politics often produce a bipartisan, civil libertarian coalition on issues like expanding the state’s texting while driving statute or restricting civil asset forfeiture. 

(Meanwhile, the only Senate proposal on the matter would make it easier to install the readers on state infrastructure.) 

Access Harrisburg chatted with state Reps. David Rowe (R., Union) and Josh Bashline (R., Clarion) about what inspired them to propose legislation on the matter. Their bills would require a warrant to use the data, set retention timelines for the data, mandate signage noting the use of the cameras, and allow local governments to pass moratoriums on the tech's use within their borders.

The below has been edited for length and clarity.