Quick Update and Bill To Restrict ALPR/Flock Cameras and Protect First Responders
The short version: A Texas lawmaker is publishing a bill to rein in ALPR/Flock surveillance while carving out protections for first responders — a sign state-level pushback is spreading.
Our Take
Credit where it's due: Will Campbell is doing something most elected officials won't — actually drafting legislative text instead of just issuing a statement of concern. Texas has become one of the most Flock-saturated states in the country, and any bill that puts guardrails on retention periods, data sharing, and who can query these networks is worth watching closely. The fact that it's framed around protecting first responders too suggests an attempt to build a coalition rather than just appeal to privacy hawks.
We'd caution readers not to get too excited yet — bill language can get gutted in committee, watered down into toothless "reporting requirements," or quietly killed before a floor vote. The gap between "a bill was filed" and "a law with real teeth passed" is enormous, and Flock's lobbying operation is well-funded and well-practiced at neutralizing exactly this kind of legislation. Still, having actual statutory language on the table gives residents something concrete to push lawmakers on instead of vague promises.
If you're in Texas, this is the moment to show up — call your state rep, show up to committee hearings, and tell them this bill matters. Check our camera map to see how many ALPRs are already logging plates in your area, and hit up our take-action page for tools to push this fight further than a single bill filing.
This is DeFlock The USA’s original commentary. The video above is the work of Will Campbell for Texas, published on YouTube — full credit to the creator.