EFF's State Legislative Agenda to End ALPR Mass Surveillance (www.eff.org)

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has laid out a comprehensive legislative agenda aimed at curbing the mass surveillance enabled by Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) used by police across the U.S. With advancements in AI transforming these systems into a pervasive tracking network, the EFF highlights serious digital rights concerns, including misuse of data to target vulnerable communities and inappropriate usage in minor investigations. Several states, including New Jersey and Oregon, have enacted laws to limit ALPRs, but the EFF argues that a sweeping ban is essential for protecting privacy and civil rights. The EFF proposes a framework for lawmakers that includes outright bans on ALPR usage, strict limits on data storage, and enhanced transparency requirements. Key recommendations are to restrict police to real-time comparisons against hotlists, require a warrant for placing vehicles on hotlists, and mandate immediate deletion of data not matching these lists. Additionally, the EFF emphasizes the need for strong enforcement measures to prevent misuse and ensure local governments retain the authority to oppose unwanted surveillance measures. This legislative action is critical for setting a regulatory floor that protects citizens from intrusive surveillance, promoting a more equitable and just society.