EFM Austin coalition urges city against adopting ALPR technology due to privacy concerns

The Austin Technology Commission meeting on July 9, 2025, centered on the contentious issue of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) in the city. Advocates from the coalition EFM Austin presented a strong case against the implementation of ALPRs, arguing that they represent a form of mass surveillance that infringes on citizens' rights and safety.

Kevin, a representative from EFM Austin, emphasized that ALPRs indiscriminately collect data on individuals without warrants or probable cause, violating the Fourth Amendment. He urged the Technology Commission to support their stance against ALPRs, stating, "Not now. Not ever." He highlighted the inherent risks associated with data collection, noting that the only way to ensure data security is to avoid collecting it altogether.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of surveillance technology, with Kevin acknowledging that while some municipalities have adopted ALPRs, citizen pushback has led to halted expansions in places like San Marcos. He pointed out that many surrounding towns utilize ALPRs with minimal oversight, raising concerns about the potential for misuse of data.

Commission members engaged in a dialogue about the differences between ALPRs and other forms of surveillance, such as toll booth cameras. Kevin argued that toll booth cameras operate in a more controlled environment, reducing the risks associated with misreads and misuse.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue the dialogue on ALPRs and their implications for privacy and civil rights in Austin. The Technology Commission expressed interest in further educating city council members on the potential dangers of ALPR technology, reinforcing the coalition's call for a definitive stance against its implementation in the city.