Virginia House Bill HB1162

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

Law-enforcement agencies; security camera monitoring.

Impact

If enacted, HB1162 will empower law enforcement agencies to set up monitoring programs that residents and business owners can voluntarily opt into. This will formalize the relationship between private security camera usage and law enforcement efforts to decrease crime rates. The law will require agencies to develop policies detailing how the monitoring occurs and how the data collected will be utilized and maintained, ensuring transparency and accountability in the monitoring process.

Summary

House Bill 1162 proposes to amend the Code of Virginia to introduce regulations for law-enforcement agencies regarding the monitoring of security cameras installed at private residences and businesses. This bill defines 'security camera' as any device capable of recording or transmitting video or photographs that is installed outdoors. The legislation aims to create a framework where law-enforcement agencies can establish programs for monitoring these devices to aid in crime tracking and reduction.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB1162 centers on privacy concerns related to government surveillance. Critics may argue that the introduction of such monitoring programs could lead to a slippery slope where private citizens are coerced into allowing surveillance of their activities. Supporters, on the other hand, may assert that the program is entirely voluntary and serves as a legitimate tool for enhancing community safety while allowing the choice to participate based on individual discretion.