Automated license plate reader systems, including Flock Safety cameras, are becoming increasingly common across Pennsylvania. As their use expands, so do the public's concerns about privacy and the security of the personal information collected by these new technologies, including the use of AI for tracking law-abiding Pennsylvanians.

Across the country, there have been reports of individuals with authorized access allegedly using license plate reader data to stalk former partners, track acquaintances, or monitor individuals for personal or other unauthorized purposes. The terms and conditions established for the use of Flock and similar systems are unclear on the right to sell data to third parties, the ownership of sensitive data, and other technical requirements that need to be regulated in order to protect personal privacy rights.

Pennsylvanians deserve confidence that if this technology is used, their personal information will be protected and those who abuse it will be held accountable. We plan to introduce legislation establishing a statewide accountability framework for the use of Flock and other license plate reader systems in Pennsylvania. 

For this reason, we will be introducing companion legislation to a bipartisan proposal in the House led by Representative Khan to ensure personal data will not be inappropriately accessed, and sensitive, private data is only accessible to appropriate law enforcement conducting lawful investigations.

Our legislation will:

• Require strong oversight and privacy safeguards, including clear rules for who may access this data, documented reasons for searches, audit trails, data retention standards, and transparency requirements.
• Hold bad actors accountable through meaningful civil penalties for the unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of this data, give individuals harmed by misuse the right to bring a civil action, and authorize the Pennsylvania Attorney General and county District Attorneys to investigate violations and bring civil enforcement actions.
• Ensure that law enforcement can continue performing legitimate investigations while safeguarding personal data by restricting access to authorized personnel and strengthening protections around sensitive information.

As Flock and other license plate reader technology becomes more prevalent across Pennsylvania and artificial intelligence is more integrated into these new technologies, it is critical that we establish clear safeguards to protect personal information and liberties, respect privacy, and ensure these powerful technologies are used responsibly.

In recent weeks, there have been bipartisan calls for action on this important issue, so we hope you will join us in sponsoring this important legislation.