Bill > S0447

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for the use of automatic license plate reader (ALPR) systems in South Carolina, defining key terms and setting strict guidelines for their deployment and operation. The legislation permits only certain governmental entities to use ALPR systems, primarily for law enforcement, public safety, parking regulation, and transportation purposes, such as toll collection. Law enforcement agencies must adopt publicly available written policies governing ALPR use, including provisions for supervisory oversight, user training, data security, and regular audits. The bill mandates that before conducting a traffic stop based on an ALPR alert, officers must visually confirm the plate's details, and all searches must have a documented law enforcement purpose. Additionally, the bill restricts data retention, allowing license plate reader data to be kept for only 90 days unless part of an active investigation, and prohibits governmental entities from selling this data. The bill also authorizes the Department of Transportation to establish a permitting process for installing cameras on non-interstate highway rights-of-way, with penalties of up to $1,000 and two years imprisonment for misuse of the system. The legislation aims to balance law enforcement needs with individual privacy protections by implementing strict oversight and usage guidelines for ALPR technology.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0447&session=126&summary=B