Bill > HB2825

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) systems—high-speed cameras paired with computer software that automatically convert vehicle license plate images into readable data—by law enforcement agencies across Pennsylvania, while setting strict privacy safeguards and duties for the private vendors who maintain these systems. Under the legislation, collected ALPR data is classified as the exclusive property of the law enforcement agency and must generally be permanently deleted within six months unless preserved as evidence in an active investigation, legal action, or pursuant to other laws. To protect civil liberties, the bill restricts the use of ALPR data strictly to official public safety and law enforcement purposes, such as investigating crimes, locating stolen vehicles, or finding missing persons, and requires police to obtain a search warrant before conducting sustained tracking of an individual's movements across multiple days. Furthermore, the bill prohibits vendors from selling the data, sharing it with unauthorized third parties or foreign adversaries (defined as foreign governments or non-governmental entities designated under federal regulations), equipping ALPR systems with facial recognition or biometric technologies, or granting themselves independent rights to the information. Law enforcement agencies must also conduct annual compliance audits and submit their findings to the Pennsylvania State Police, and any willful violations by vendors or authorized users can be prosecuted by the Attorney General, who may seek court injunctions, mandated data destruction, and civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation.