Gov. Josh Shapiro joins calls to ban Flock cameras in Pennsylvania
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Pennsylvania's rapid push toward limiting the use of license plate readers made by Flock and other companies just got a major backer: Gov. Josh Shapiro.
Why it matters: The cameras have fast become a major flashpoint over concerns of mass surveillance and privacy, joining other anti-tech targets like data centers.
How it works: Flock and other automated license plate reader cameras (ALPRs) are placed on streets and highways. They use AI to capture and store information like license plate numbers, car make and other features.
1 rare thing: It's a bipartisan issue in Pennsylvania — unusual in the state's divided government.
State of play: At least three state legislators say they will put forward limits or outright bans on the tech — two state Republican senators and a Democratic senator.
Meanwhile, Shapiro recently took a position on the issue, saying he would back legislation to ban the cameras statewide.
- "This is not something in the public interest," said the Democratic governor about the cameras, per the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I think law enforcement needs to have tools to keep communities safe. Flock cameras are not a tool that I support."
The big picture: Flock alone has more than 120,000 cameras across the country, the company tells Axios.
- Advocates say the cameras help quickly track down criminals, making cities safer.
- Opponents say the cameras enable constant surveillance, infringe on residents' civil liberties and lack adequate oversight. Some have even turned to sabotaging them.
By the numbers: More than 1,000 ALPRs are used for traffic and safety issues across the Philly region, according to Deflock, an open-source map tracking the tech.
- In Philly proper, dozens of cameras are set up for traffic enforcement along Broad Street and Baltimore Avenue in West Philly.
- Across the state, ALPRs number more than 7,170, per Deflock.
Zoom in: The anti-Flock frenzy has also arrived in the Philly region.
- Case in point: Abington Township recently ditched Flock cameras for another system after data leaks involving the township and public outcry.
What they're saying: Elizabeth Randol, ACLU of Pennsylvania's legislative director, tells Axios Flock's universal coverage can create a chilling effect on people's liberties.
- "Even if a person is not violating the law, the threat of this constant, ever-present surveillance could make people afraid to lawfully exercise their rights of freedom of speech, religion, and association," Randol says.