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NewsCreative Loafing Tampa Bay — NewsSeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough

DeSantis Administration bans Flock license plate reader cameras from state highways

The Florida administration has prohibited the use of automated license plate reader (LPR) cameras, such as those manufactured by Flock Safety, on state-maintained roads. The move follows reports of potential misuse of the surveillance technology and concerns regarding driver privacy.

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Why It Matters

This policy change removes automated tracking technology from state highways, impacting how law enforcement agencies monitor vehicle movement and identify suspects on those routes.

Key Facts

  • The DeSantis administration issued a ban on license plate reader (LPR) cameras on state highways.
  • The ban specifically targets technology provided by companies like Flock Safety.
  • The decision was prompted by concerns regarding privacy and reports of technology abuse.
  • LPR cameras utilize artificial intelligence to track suspects and identify speeding vehicles.

Who's Mentioned

personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida who supports the ban on LPR cameras.”organizationFlock Safety“Manufacturer of the license plate reader cameras.”organizationFlorida Department of Transportation“The state agency issuing the directive to remove cameras.”personWill Watts“FDOT Chief Operating Officer who signed the memo.”