Lansing residents are directly challenging the presence of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras in their city. Members of DeFlock Lansing and the Michigan Capitol Visibility Brigade recently gathered at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue to physically block the view of four Flock cameras. This action follows a Lansing City Council vote requesting the termination of the city's contract with Flock Safety, as Michigan Advance reported.
For drivers in Lansing, this means that while the cameras are still active, there's significant community pressure to remove them. You can always check our /map for the latest information on camera locations in your area.
Why are Lansing residents protesting these cameras?
The protest on September 28, 2026, aimed to draw attention to the ongoing debate over ALPR technology. The Lansing City Council, on August 24, voted 7-1 in favor of a resolution to end all contracts with Flock Safety. This decision stemmed from privacy concerns and a trend of other local governments reconsidering ALPR use.
John Warmb, an organizer with DeFlock Lansing, stated, "The mayor has not acted on this resolution, so we're out here doing more than the mayor to keep Lansing safe from AI-powered mass surveillance by blocking the view of these four cameras for the next hour." The group seeks a city ordinance to ban ALPR cameras entirely.
Mayor Andy Schor acknowledged the council's resolution and community input, noting the current contract extends for another year and a half. He indicated discussions with various parties are underway before any final decisions.
What are the concerns about ALPR cameras?
Opponents of ALPR cameras frequently cite privacy concerns and the potential for misuse. While law enforcement agencies often promote the cameras as tools for crime deterrence, tracking stolen vehicles, and aiding in AMBER Alerts, critics point to a lack of clear legal guidelines governing their use.
One significant concern highlighted in the Michigan Advance report is the documented misuse by law enforcement officials. A USA Today investigation revealed at least 22 law enforcement officials faced consequences for alleged misuse of Flock cameras. This included a Florida police officer charged with four felony counts for accessing a computer network without authorization after searching a woman's license plate 189 times over eight months.
William Lawrence, a Lansing-area political organizer, joined the protesters, stating, "This is a violation of our right to privacy, which is enshrined in the Fourth Amendment." He also noted that federal legislative efforts are underway, with the Protection Against Mass Surveillance Act aiming to prohibit federal agencies from deploying such systems and prevent state and local governments from using federal funds for them.
What's next for drivers in Lansing?
The Lansing City Council's resolution requests the city administration and Police Department to terminate contracts with Flock Safety. However, the mayor has stated the current contract lasts another 18 months, and he is consulting with various stakeholders before making a decision. The protesters hope to see the mayor cover the cameras in the interim. Drivers should stay informed about any upcoming city council meetings or public forums where this issue may be discussed further.