Texas stops issuing permits for Flock cameras along state roads
State’s department of transportation said freeze does not affect nearly 900 cameras already installed along state rights-of-way
TL;DR
- Texas's Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has stopped issuing permits for Flock cameras on state roads.
- The pause was directed by Governor Greg Abbott and affects new installations and pending agreements.
- Cameras already installed, including over 900 operated by the Texas Department of Public Safety, are not impacted.
- Privacy concerns have been rising over the use of these cameras, which collect vehicle data.
- The suspension follows Abbott's order to block state funding for Flock cameras.
- Other states, like Florida, have also taken action to remove similar cameras from state roads.
- City councils and county commissions are also disconnecting cameras due to resident pressure and misuse concerns.
- Law enforcement agencies defend the cameras as effective tools for solving crimes and locating missing persons.