Tempe has become the first city in Arizona to ban automated license plate readers after its City Council voted 6-1 to prohibit the technology’s use by municipal departments and police.
The ordinance, approved on Thursday, 15 October, places the ban in the city code and prevents Tempe from purchasing, funding or entering into future contracts for automated licence-plate reader systems, subject to limited exceptions.
The cameras use software to scan number plates and create searchable records of vehicles. Police agencies have used the systems to locate stolen cars and assist criminal investigations, but critics have raised concerns about privacy, data-sharing and the possibility of misuse.
Tempe had already switched off its Flock Safety camera network in August and ended its contract with the company. The council’s decision formalises that move and is intended to prevent a future administration from restoring the programme without changing the law.
The final measure also provides for the destruction of existing automated licence-plate reader data held by the city. Officials have said the technology should not be used to track people’s movements or reveal identifying information.
Vice-mayor Arlene Chin was the only council member to vote against the ordinance. The ban was opposed by Tempe’s police chief and the local police union, which argued that the cameras can help investigators identify vehicles and develop leads.
Residents speaking at the meeting presented the opposite view, saying the systems had not been shown to prevent crime and created significant risks to civil liberties. One speaker described them as inaccurate and incompatible with Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches.
Employees who breach the rules could face disciplinary action, including termination, as well as possible civil or criminal penalties. The ordinance is due to take effect 30 days after its approval and could only be repealed by a future council vote.
