Bill > HB961

This bill establishes new regulations for law enforcement agencies' use of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs), which are digital systems that capture and record license plate numbers through photographs. The legislation requires that ALPRs can only be used with a warrant or court order, and the images and data collected can only be used to investigate violent criminal offenses as defined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Law enforcement agencies must promptly destroy ALPR images and data unless the records are related to a specific criminal offense or ongoing investigation involving the vehicle or its registered owner. The bill mandates that agencies develop and publicly publish an annual policy regarding ALPR usage, and create a report detailing the number of license plates scanned and how many scans led to arrests or prosecutions. Additionally, agencies are prohibited from sharing ALPR images or data with external parties except for authorized investigative purposes. The legislation will take effect on September 1, 2025, providing law enforcement agencies time to develop compliant policies and procedures.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB961