AUSTIN — Texas Comptroller Don Huffines announced Oct. 15 that future grants administered by his office will prohibit recipients from using state grant money to purchase or contract for automated license plate readers and other vehicle identification systems that convert images into computer- readable data.
According to a news release from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, the restriction applies to future grants and will be incorporated into relevant grant solicitations and agreements.
The ban prohibits grant recipients from using grant funds to purchase or obtain covered surveillance equipment or services, or to enter into, extend or renew contracts for those systems.
The prohibited technology includes systems, software and computer algorithms that convert license plates or other images into computer-readable data, whether used independently or with fixed or mobile automated cameras. The release said the restriction covers cameras, sensors, software, subscriptions and data platforms.
The release specifically identified Flock Group Inc., which operates as Flock Safety, Motorola Solutions Inc. and Axon Enterprise Inc., as well as their successors, affiliates and resellers offering automated license plate recognition technology.
“The government has no business tracking where law-abiding Texans drive. Doing it without a warrant is a clear violation of the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution,” Huffines said. “Texans should be able to drive to work, to church, or to the grocery store without a government camera logging it in a database.
“I am humbled and honored to do my part to restore liberty and stop the erosion of freedoms that are constantly being taken from Texans. Government’s job is to protect your liberty, not take it. No spy cameras.”
The announcement concerns the use of state grant funds administered by the comptroller’s office. The release did not state that the policy prohibits local governments from purchasing the technology with other funding sources.
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