Florida bans automated license plate readers on state highways

Florida's Department of Transportation (FDOT) has banned the use of automated license plate readers, such as Flock cameras, on the state's highways. A memo issued Monday states that all permits for these devices will be revoked and they must be removed from state highways within 30 days.

The order comes in response to an "exponential increase in deployments" of license plate readers, "coupled with concerning reports of misuse, data privacy concerns, and surveillance schemes," the agency said. The department is also halting future requests for new installations.

Florida joins other states like Colorado and Michigan, which have previously placed restrictions on the use of such surveillance technologies. The decision raises questions about privacy and the broader role of surveillance cameras in public spaces.

The FDOT has not provided specific details on how it will enforce the ban or what penalties may apply for non-compliance. The agency stated it is reviewing its policies to ensure citizen privacy.