Connecticut House Bill HB05391

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/12
• Refer: 3/1/12
• Report Pass: 3/20/12
• Refer: 3/30/12
• Report Pass: 4/5/12

Caption

An Act Concerning A Law Enforcement Agency's Use Of An Automated License Plate Recognition System.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05391 is significant for state laws concerning surveillance and data management. By setting a limit on how long law enforcement can retain license plate data, the bill seeks to protect citizens' privacy rights and reduce potential misuse of surveillance technologies. This approach can lead to enhanced public trust in law enforcement practices as it resonates with growing concerns about data retention and privacy implications in digital surveillance.

Summary

House Bill 05391 addresses the use of automated license plate recognition systems by law enforcement agencies. The bill establishes a clear framework governing how data captured from license plates is collected, stored, and ultimately expunged. It mandates that any data collected must be discarded within fourteen days unless it is relevant to ongoing criminal investigations, thereby emphasizing the importance of data privacy alongside law enforcement objectives.

Sentiment

General sentiment around the bill tends to favor a balanced approach between effective law enforcement and civil liberties. Supporters argue that the bill provides necessary oversight for the use of technology that can easily infringe upon privacy. However, there are also concerns regarding law enforcement's ability to conduct investigations efficiently if data is required to be deleted so promptly. This tension between the need for public safety and the protection of individual rights makes for a complex discussion.

Contention

The bill raises notable points of contention regarding its implications for law enforcement practices. Critics worry that the short data retention period may hinder law enforcement's ability to solve crimes, especially those involving vehicle-related offenses. In contrast, advocates stress the necessity of protecting individual privacy, particularly in an age where technological advancements can lead to unprecedented levels of surveillance without adequate accountability. The debate underscores the ongoing conversation about the balance between security and personal freedoms in a modern society.