Flock, Axon dodge Senate hearing after invite from Chair Josh Hawley
Prior to the hearing about the surveillance technology companies, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., suggested the executives could face subpoenas.
TL;DR
- CEOs of Flock Safety, Axon Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, and Verkada did not attend a Senate hearing on AI-powered surveillance technology.
- Senators Josh Hawley and Dick Durbin expressed concerns about the potential for surveillance networks to infringe on privacy and civil liberties.
- Flock Safety's extensive network of automated license plate readers was a particular focus, with access to nationwide data raising alarms.
- Instances of misuse of surveillance technology and errors leading to wrongful accusations were highlighted during the hearing.
- While Verkada denied having a national network, Flock acknowledged the importance of preventing misuse and supported clear legislative standards.
- There is speculation that Flock Safety is considering selling itself.