On January 17, 2025, Utah lawmakers introduced S.B. 138, a legislative bill aimed at regulating the use of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) by governmental entities. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding privacy and data management associated with the collection and use of vehicle license plate information.

The primary provisions of S.B. 138 include strict guidelines on how captured plate data can be preserved, disclosed, and utilized. Notably, the bill prohibits governmental entities from selling or sharing this data for unauthorized purposes. It allows for the preservation of data only under specific conditions, such as for law enforcement purposes or in compliance with legal warrants. Additionally, the bill mandates that any non-essential data must be destroyed as soon as reasonably possible to protect individual privacy.

The legislation also includes a provision that permits the use of aggregate data for planning and statistical purposes, provided that it does not identify specific license plates. This aspect aims to balance the need for data analysis with the protection of individual privacy rights.

Debate surrounding S.B. 138 has highlighted concerns from civil liberties advocates who argue that while the bill includes important privacy protections, it may not go far enough in limiting the potential misuse of ALPR technology. Supporters of the bill, including law enforcement agencies, argue that the technology is essential for public safety and crime prevention.

The implications of S.B. 138 extend beyond privacy concerns, touching on broader issues of surveillance and data security in the digital age. Experts suggest that the bill could set a precedent for how similar technologies are regulated in other states, potentially influencing national discussions on privacy rights and law enforcement practices.

As the legislative process continues, stakeholders from various sectors will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential impact on both public safety and individual privacy rights in Utah.