WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 920

License plate readers; penalties.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Irene Shin

Virginia bill establishing regulatory standards and penalties for license plate reader use, continuing through 2025 with substitute revisions pending final consideration.

Left in Public Safety
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 920

Legislative bill overview

HB 920 addresses the regulation and use of Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs) in Virginia, establishing standards for their deployment and imposing penalties for misuse. The bill has been substantially revised through committee substitutes, indicating significant negotiation over its specific provisions.

Why is this important

License plate readers are increasingly deployed by law enforcement and private entities to track vehicle movements, raising concerns about mass surveillance, privacy rights, and potential discriminatory enforcement. Virginia's approach to regulating these technologies will affect both public privacy protections and law enforcement capabilities across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. law enforcement: Balancing surveillance capabilities for crime prevention against Fourth Amendment concerns and mass tracking of citizens' movements
  • Data retention and access: Questions about how long ALPR data can be stored, who can access it, and whether proper warrants are required for searches
  • Scope of penalties: Whether penalties apply equally to government agencies and private entities, and if exemptions exist for specific law enforcement purposes

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

Sign in to ask a question.