Congress proposes tying federal highway funds to state restrictions on automated license plate readers

Washington — A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation this week that would tie federal highway‑funding eligibility to state compliance with new restrictions on automated license‑plate readers (ALPRs). The bill, co‑sponsored by senators from both parties, proposes that states must adopt privacy safeguards, limit data retention periods, and provide public notice before deploying ALPR technology on public roadways. Failure to meet these standards could result in a reduction of federal aid for highway construction and maintenance, echoing the enforcement model used for the national drinking‑age law.

The proposal follows growing concerns from civil‑rights groups and some municipalities about the expansive use of ALPRs by law‑enforcement agencies and private entities, which critics say can enable mass surveillance without adequate oversight. Proponents argue that linking compliance to highway funding creates a strong incentive for states to adopt uniform privacy protections, while opponents warn that the measure could jeopardize critical infrastructure projects in states that lack the resources to quickly overhaul their data‑collection practices. The legislation is slated for committee hearings in the coming weeks, with supporters hoping it will set a national baseline for ALPR use while preserving federal investment in the nation’s road network.