Senate Bill 299 establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to support law enforcement agencies in purchasing automated registration plate reader systems. The bill defines an automated registration plate reader system as high-speed cameras that convert images of vehicle registration plates into computer-readable data. It specifies that eligible law enforcement agencies must submit a grant application that includes a proposed plan for the use of the funds. Importantly, the bill mandates that at least 50 percent of the grant funds awarded must go to agencies located in rural areas, defined as those with populations under 20,000 and at least 15 miles from larger municipalities.

The bill creates a new section, 165.985, in the statutes, detailing the parameters of the grant program, including definitions for "law enforcement agency" and "rural area." It clarifies that the program is intended for public safety and law enforcement purposes, and it includes provisions for the DOJ to review applications and award grants accordingly. This initiative aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities, particularly in less populated regions of Wisconsin.