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Ron DeSantis orders removal of automated license plate readers from Florida state highways

The administration announced that the Florida Department of Transportation is revoking all existing permits for automated license plate readers (ALPRs) on state highway rights-of-way. Law enforcement agencies have 30 days to remove the devices, and the state will immediately cease issuing new permits for these cameras within its jurisdiction. Ron DeSantis stated that the move addresses concerns regarding a growing "digital AI surveillance state" where data privacy is at risk. While the technology has been used effectively to solve crimes and find missing people, Ron DeSantis noted that penalties for misuse remain inadequate. The directive follows a nationwide trend of pushback against surveillance vendors like Flock Safety. In response to the state order, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Pensacola Police Department have suspended their use of ALPR networks. Additionally, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has discontinued the use of technology throughout its jurisdiction. Flock Safety stated that the technology remains a critical public safety tool and requested legislation that provides privacy and accountability guardrails rather than a total ban.

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