Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib introduced legislation on Wednesday aimed at banning federal funding for automated surveillance technologies, particularly license plate readers such as those used by Flock. The proposed “Get the Flock Out of Our Communities Act” would prevent federal financial support for these systems and mandate that state and local governments divest from their use.
The legislation would also prohibit the federal government from utilizing such systems and require the permanent deletion of any data collected by them. Tlaib emphasized the need to protect communities from mass surveillance, asserting, “When they pull up at our residence and tell them that somehow this is going to make us safer is a lie.” She made these remarks during a press conference to discuss the bill.
Several municipalities in Southeast Michigan, including Eastpointe, Milford, Madison Heights, and Bedford Township, have terminated their contracts with Flock. Some local law enforcement agencies have reported instances of misuse of the technology by employees. Tlaib expressed pride in the cities that have opted to sever ties with Flock.
Despite claims from city and county law enforcement that the technology has aided in solving crimes, many residents remain uneasy about privacy concerns. Tlaib articulated that federal funds should focus on “real safety solutions” such as job creation, affordable housing, clean water, and reliable electricity, rather than investing in technologies that she believes compromise citizens’ rights.
Tlaib additionally called upon cities like Inkster and Detroit to reconsider their use of Flock systems. Inkster officials recently announced plans to expand their contract with Flock to include 20 license plate readers, five video security cameras, 48 gunshot detection devices, and one drone. This development follows an initial deployment of six readers in the city in 2023.
Inkster’s Mayor Byron Nolen, who previously challenged Tlaib in the August primary, defended the technology, stating it represents “another step forward for our city” and enhances public safety by preventing crime and ensuring quicker emergency responses.
At the federal level, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley introduced the “Stop Flock Abuse Act” last month, which seeks to impose stricter regulations on automated license plate readers, focusing on data security and usage limits. In Michigan, similar legislative efforts are underway, including House Bill 5492 and Senate Bill 1131, which aim to regulate the use of automated license plate readers by both private and governmental entities.
