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Bill

HB 2724

Automatic license plate recognition systems; use, reports, penalty.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Bloxom and 3 co-sponsors

Virginia law now requires automatic license plate recognition systems to implement reporting requirements and data policies with penalties for violations to enhance surveillance transparency.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0720)
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Bill Summary · HB 2724

Legislative bill overview

HB 2724 establishes regulatory requirements and reporting obligations for automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) systems used by law enforcement and other entities in Virginia. The bill mandates transparency through regular public reports on ALPR deployment, data retention policies, and usage patterns, while imposing penalties for non-compliance with established guidelines.

Why is this important

ALPR technology captures and stores license plate data from thousands of vehicles daily, raising significant privacy concerns about mass surveillance and data retention practices. This legislation addresses growing public concern about how law enforcement uses these systems by requiring accountability measures, though the specific enforcement mechanisms and scope of oversight remain critical implementation questions.

Potential points of contention

  • Data retention and access: The bill's specific timeframes for how long ALPR data can be stored and who can access it may be viewed as either insufficient safeguards (by privacy advocates) or overly restrictive (by law enforcement seeking operational flexibility)
  • Reporting requirements burden: Law enforcement agencies may argue that comprehensive public reporting requirements create administrative costs and operational delays, while privacy advocates may contend the reports lack sufficient detail for meaningful public oversight
  • Scope limitations: The bill may not address all entities using ALPR technology (private companies, parking facilities), creating potential gaps where similar systems operate without equivalent transparency requirements

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

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