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SB 1013

AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURE -- AUTOMATED LICENSE PLATE READERS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Britto

SB 1013 establishes oversight and data-handling standards for police use of automated license plate readers in Rhode Island, restricting access and mandating retention limits.

05/02/2025 Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary
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Bill Summary · SB 1013

Legislative bill overview

SB 1013 establishes regulatory requirements for automated license plate readers (ALPRs) used by law enforcement in Rhode Island. The bill addresses data collection, retention, access protocols, and oversight mechanisms for these surveillance devices that photograph and record vehicle license plates and locations.

Why is this important

ALPRs have become widespread law enforcement tools that create detailed records of where vehicles travel, raising significant privacy concerns. The bill directly impacts how police can use this technology and what protections exist for citizens' movement data—a matter increasingly scrutinized nationally as surveillance capabilities expand.

Potential points of contention

  • Data retention standards: Disagreement over how long ALPR data should be stored before deletion, balancing investigative needs against privacy preservation
  • Access restrictions: Debate over which agencies and officials can access ALPR databases and under what circumstances (warrant requirements vs. administrative access)
  • Transparency requirements: Tension between requiring public reporting on ALPR usage (which advocates support) and law enforcement concerns that detailed disclosures could compromise investigations or operational security
  • Grandfather clauses: Whether existing ALPR systems must immediately comply with new standards or receive implementation timelines

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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