Bill putting restrictions on automated license plate readers passes Kentucky legislature

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Kentucky lawmakers passed a bill Tuesday that puts restrictions on automated license plate readers, like Flock cameras.

House Bill 58 addresses concerns about the cameras that are increasingly being used to track vehicles involved in crime.

"We all want safer communities. There are increasing concerns about crime spreading to the suburbs, including carjacking, car theft, road rage violence, and kidnapping," Rep. John Hodgson, R-Fisherville, the bill's sponsor, said in a news release. "These cameras can provide a powerful and effective real-time tool for our law enforcement to reduce crime."

They're also used to control parking access and security and collect tolls on public roads and bridges.

The measure puts limits on the data collected by those cameras. All data would need to be destroyed within 90 days, unless it's tied to an active criminal investigation. Data also cannot be sold or shared.

"Many of my constituents share my concerns about the growth of the surveillance state, as law abiding citizens do not want to be monitored and tracked by the government as they go about their daily lives," Hodgson said.

The legislation is now on Gov. Andy Beshear's desk for his consideration. He will either sign the bill to make it law or veto it.

To learn more about HB 58 or to track its progress, click here.