Sen. Josh Hawley introduces bill aimed at stopping abuse of Flock cameras and similar AI technology
Updated on: September 30, 2026 / 6:59 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Sen. Josh Hawley is introducing the Stop Flock Abuse Act to regulate AI-powered surveillance technology.
- The bill would impose stricter limits on data, security, and search functions for automated license plate readers.
- Agencies would be required to permanently delete driver data within 10 days unless part of a criminal investigation.
- Surveillance networks would be banned from using facial recognition technology.
- Data must be encrypted and remain in the United States, with requirements for written approval and audit logs for searches.
- Concerns about privacy, security, and potential misuse, including a case of wrongful accusation, have fueled the bill's introduction.
- Other lawmakers and companies have acknowledged the need for a federal framework to govern such technology.