Austin Ends Police License Plate Scanner Program After Public Backlash

The City of Austin is suspending its use of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) due to public outcry and privacy concerns, causing City Manager T.C. Broadnax to withdraw a proposed program extension. The decision came just days before the City Council's vote on June 5, which would have prolonged the pilot program indefinitely.

The Austin Police Department (APD) was able to scan tens of millions of license plates using more than 500 camera-equipped patrol vehicles after initiating the ALPR system in March 2023 with a $114,00 budget. Police officials praised the program for assisting dozens of criminal investigations and arrests, particularly considering the department's significant staffing restrictions.

However, concerns expressed by civil liberties advocates, council members, and community groups dominated a crowded council meeting on June 3. Critics claim that the ALPR program, which is administered under contract with Flock Safety, risks overreach and data misuse, including the possible sharing of data with private firms or federal agencies, such as the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"Given the concerns expressed today, I have decided to withdraw this item from the agenda at this time," Broadnax stated. "We need more time to address council questions and community concerns."

Council members Mike Siegel and Zo Qadri were among the most vocal critics, pointing out the technology's potential for civil rights violations. "We can not just take verbal assurances," Siegel said. "The contract showed that Austin's data was at risk."

While the Flock pilot program is on hold, more than 500 ALPRs delivered under a different contract with Axon Enterprise are still operational. Flock Safety had not responded to the city's decision at press time.

The program could be reconsidered before the end of 2025. Still, some council members hope APD employs other investigative tactics and prioritizes long-term solutions, including recruitment and community-based safety strategies. Meanwhile, cities like San Marcos have followed suit, prohibiting the extended use of ALPRs due to similar concerns.