Austin Ends Police License Plate Scanner Program After Public Backlash

The City of Austin suspended its automatic license plate reader (ALPR) program amid mounting public backlash and privacy concerns. City Manager T. C. Broadnax withdrew a proposal to extend the program just days before a City Council vote scheduled for June 5. The Austin Police Department had utilized the ALPR system since March 2023, scanning tens of millions of license plates and assisting in numerous criminal investigations.

However, civil liberties advocates and council members voiced serious concerns regarding data misuse and the risk of sharing data with agencies like ICE. Broadnax recognized the necessity for further dialogue, saying, "We need more time to address council questions and community concerns. " While the pilot program with Flock Safety is on hold, over 500 ALPRs under a separate contract with Axon Enterprise continue to operate. Some council members are advocating for alternative investigative strategies and long-term safety solutions. Other cities, such as San Marcos, have also moved to limit ALPR use due to similar issues.