Tempe, Arizona, is currently debating a proposed ordinance that would ban the use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) by all city agencies. This move follows the city's decision last month to deactivate its existing ALPR cameras. Drivers in Tempe should be aware that their vehicle movements might soon be less tracked by city-operated systems. FOX 10 Phoenix reported on the ongoing discussion and the proposed ban.
The ordinance, introduced on September 24, aims to prohibit city agencies from using ALPRs entirely. It would also prevent them from entering into, renewing, or extending contracts for this technology. City Councilmember Bobby Nichols indicated that the ordinance was developed with input from community members and experts.
What does this mean for drivers in Tempe?
If the ban passes, city agencies in Tempe would no longer collect ALPR data. This means a reduction in the city's ability to track vehicle movements within its limits. For drivers, this could translate to increased privacy regarding their travel patterns.
However, the proposed ordinance does include specific exceptions:
- The city could still receive or use ALPR data obtained through a search warrant, court order, or subpoena.
- This is allowed only if the city did not request or arrange for the initial data collection.
- Limited non-law enforcement uses, like parking lot management, could continue, provided the information is not shared with private third parties for searchable databases.
These exceptions highlight that while direct city collection might cease, data from other sources could still be accessible under certain conditions. Understanding where cameras are located is always important for drivers, and you can explore more about ALPRs on our /map page.
Why is Tempe considering this ban?
The primary driver behind the proposed ban is mounting privacy concerns. Pinal County Sheriff Ross Teeple, for example, has voiced significant reservations about the technology. He testified in Washington, D.C., asking, "If my deputies need a search warrant to put a physical tracker on a vehicle, where is the line for camera systems that build an identical AI driven map of a citizen’s life?"
Conversely, the Tempe Police Department opposes the ban. Police Chief Kenneth McCoy stated that discontinuing ALPR use has impacted ongoing investigations. He claimed that some cases could have been solved more quickly if the police had access to ALPR data.
Other law enforcement agencies have cited recent instances where ALPRs assisted them:
- Casa Grande police reported ALPRs helped them find shooting suspects.
- Peoria police used the technology to locate an 80-year-old individual.
Despite these reported benefits, the privacy implications remain a central point of contention for many. Sheriff Teeple indicated he would support state legislation that would put guardrails around ALPR technology without limiting its full use.
What happens next?
The proposed ban is not yet final. The Tempe City Council is scheduled to hold a second reading and vote on the ordinance on Thursday, October 15.