Bill > SB274

This bill, known as the Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Data Accountability Act, introduces comprehensive regulations for the use of automated license plate recognition systems by public agencies in California. The bill significantly restricts how ALPR data can be collected, stored, and shared, requiring agencies to implement strict privacy and security measures. Specifically, it mandates that law enforcement can only use ALPR information to locate vehicles or persons suspected of committing a public offense, prohibits retaining ALPR data for more than 60 days unless it matches an authorized "hot list" (which includes specific criminal databases and alert lists), and requires agencies to implement detailed usage and privacy policies. Beginning January 1, 2026, the bill will prevent automatic sharing of ALPR data between agencies and require new vendor contracts to ensure no default access to national ALPR databases. The legislation also introduces stronger data protection requirements, including mandatory data security and privacy training for employees, supervisory approval for data access, and tracking of employee searches. Additionally, the bill allows individuals who are harmed by unauthorized ALPR data use to bring civil actions, with potential damages of at least $2,500, and provides for annual random audits by the Department of Justice to ensure compliance.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB274