Politics
Providence moves toward review of proposed halt to license-plate surveillance
The City Council unanimously sent an ordinance targeting Flock automated license-plate readers to committee, where a public hearing is expected. The measure would end city use of the cameras, but it has not been approved and faces further council votes.
Providence City Councilors voted unanimously Thursday, Oct. 15, to send a proposed ban on Flock automated license-plate readers to committee for further review. The vote advances the proposal but does not immediately change how the cameras are used.
The ordinance, sponsored by Council President Rachel Miller and Councilors Sue AnderBois and Miguel Sanchez, would bar city agencies from operating the readers or accessing and using their data. It would also require the city to end its use of the system and take steps to terminate existing agreements. A public hearing is expected in committee.
The Providence Police Department currently operates 60 Flock cameras, which scan and record license-plate information that investigators can use in criminal cases. The proposed ordinance says more than 100 Flock cameras are reportedly deployed around the city when devices covered by a separate Rhode Island State Police contract are included.
The debate has centered on public safety and privacy. Supporters have warned that the data could be misused for surveillance, including against immigrants, or contribute to stalking and mistaken identification. AnderBois said residents’ civil liberties carry a substantial cost when they are under constant camera surveillance. Providence resident Randall Rose, who is part of Rhode Islanders for Personal Privacy, said many people do not want to be watched routinely.
Mayor Brett Smiley has argued that the technology has helped police solve crimes and bring justice to victims. He urged councilors to address privacy concerns without discarding the system, saying it has made Providence safer.
Police Chief Oscar Perez said he was not consulted before the ordinance was drafted. In a statement, he said he respected elected officials’ authority to set policy but would have welcomed a chance to explain potential effects on police operations and investigations. AnderBois said the proposal was not a reflection of distrust in Perez or the department, but an effort to protect residents and people visiting the city.
The city signed its Flock contract in October 2023. The proposed ordinance estimates the agreement costs about $155,000 to $170,000 annually.
If the measure clears committee, it would return to the full council and need to pass two votes before becoming law. If approved, it would take effect upon passage and require the city to discontinue its use of automated license-plate readers.