Connecticut House Bill HB06639

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/13
• Refer: 3/12/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Use Of An Automated Number Plate Recognition System.

Impact

One of the key provisions of this bill is its stipulation regarding data management. It requires that any data gathered through ANPR systems must be reviewed and discarded within fourteen days if it does not establish the existence of criminal activity. This regulation aims to protect citizens from undue surveillance and the misuse of personal information while balancing the needs of law enforcement agencies in conducting criminal investigations.

Summary

House Bill 06639 aims to regulate the use of automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems in the state. This legislation establishes clear guidelines on who may utilize such systems—primarily authorized employees from certain government agencies like the Department of Transportation, local police departments, and the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. The bill emphasizes that the application of these systems must be strictly for legitimate public safety and law enforcement purposes, which includes confirming compliance with both municipal and state regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 06639 include concerns over civil liberties and privacy. Advocacy groups may argue that while regulation is necessary, the reliance on technology for law enforcement could lead to overreach or misuse. Opponents might fear that even well-intentioned use of ANPR could lead to the profiling of individuals or unwarranted data collection without evidence of wrongdoing. The bill attempts to address these concerns through provisions that limit data retention and define the proper use of the technology.