Ron DeSantis Blocks License Plate Readers on Florida Roads

Governor Ron DeSantis blocked the use of license plate readers on state roads, citing concerns that the technology could create a surveillance state. He argued that the ability to create dossiers on citizen movements could be exploited for commercial profit through advertising and product placement.

This policy shift follows a period in which DeSantis approved approximately $4.6 million in grants for the systems through the State Board of Immigration Enforcement to assist local agencies with illegal immigration enforcement. The Florida Department of Transportation subsequently issued a memo withdrawing authority for the use of these readers on state roads.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Brevard County and Bradford County Sheriff's Offices, have begun shutting down their programs in response. The Florida Department of Transportation has ordered agencies with existing permits to remove the cameras within 30 days and announced it will no longer issue new requests for license plate reader systems within its jurisdiction.