Florida Bans Flock Cameras From State Highways Amid Privacy Concerns

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is removing controversial Flock cameras and other license plate readers from state highways, following growing concerns about privacy implications.

FDOT Assistant Secretary and Chief Operating Officer Will Watts issued an August 31 memo announcing the revocation of permits for all License Plate Recognition Systems (LPR) to local law enforcement agencies. The memo cited a recent exponential increase in deployments along their roadways, coupled with concerning reports of misuse, data privacy concerns, and surveillance schemes.

No new LPR permits will be issued, and existing systems must be removed from the state highway system within 30 days. The order does not cover cameras on private property, city or county roads, or mobile devices. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis explained the move on Monday, stating, "I don’t want things that are sweeping up just everyday citizens, and we’re told don’t worry about it. No one’s going to use it. Then come to find out some company is harvesting that and they can make a fortune."

DeSantis added that if companies can create a dossier on your movements, they would be able to make a fortune in selling that to companies for advertising and for product placement. Almost 7,500 LPRs are estimated to be in use across 100 Florida law enforcement agencies. Following the state's directive, Miami-Dade sheriff announced the suspension of Flock cameras in its entirety, and Leon County also suspended their use.

Critics argue the system is rife with abuse, while supporters contend the cameras help crack down on speeding, kidnappers, and violent fugitives. The move by Florida follows similar actions in Texas, as both states address increasing backlash over privacy concerns and misuse of tracking technology.