Bill > SB6002

This bill establishes new regulations for the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) systems, which are technologies that convert images of license plates into computer-readable data, by government agencies in Washington state, aiming to balance public safety with individual privacy rights. The bill defines key terms such as "agency" (any state or local government entity), "audit trail" (records of how the ALPR system is used and accessed), and "ALPR system" itself, while excluding certain traffic safety and photo toll cameras. It makes it unlawful for agencies to use ALPR systems or their data except for specific authorized purposes, such as law enforcement comparing captured data against watch lists for stolen vehicles, missing persons, or individuals with felony warrants, or for parking enforcement and traffic studies by transportation agencies. The bill strictly prohibits using ALPRs for immigration enforcement, tracking constitutionally protected activities, or collecting data at sensitive locations like healthcare facilities, schools, or places of worship. Agencies must register their ALPR systems with the Attorney General, and data collected must generally be retained for no more than 21 days, with specific exceptions for ongoing investigations or legal proceedings. The bill also prohibits the disclosure or sale of ALPR data, requires vendors to implement technical controls to prevent unauthorized sharing, and mandates that ALPR vendors obtain agency consent for any system changes. Furthermore, it requires agencies to maintain audit trails of system access for five years, conduct annual internal audits, and develop policies for ALPR use, with the Attorney General providing model policies. Violations can lead to criminal penalties, including gross misdemeanor charges, and individuals harmed by violations may bring civil actions for damages.

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https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6002&Year=2025&Initiative=false