Restrictions on Police Surveillance Cameras (H 8077)

  • Status: Held for Further Study
  • Position: Support
  • Bill Number: H 8077
  • Session: 2026
  • Latest Update: Apr 2, 2026
A dark purple graphic with a yellow and purple image of the RI State House and a picture of surveillance cameras on a lamp post.

Summary


Following the widespread and surreptitious installation across the state of deceptively named "automated license plate reader" cameras that actually have incredibly invasive technological capabilities, we strongly supported legislation which would have limited the use of these cameras. This bill would further require a public process for the implementation of any type of similar surveillance technology, which is particularly important because the installation of these systems in municipalities across the state initially occurred out of the view of the public. Ultimately, this legislation would ensure that the unfettered and unregulated installation of these cameras cannot continue to occur. This legislation died in committee.

Sponsors:
Representative Dawson

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