Security Industry Association Calls for the Responsible and Effective Use of Automated License Plate Reader Technology

SIA has issued policy principles and guidance designed to guard against misuse of ALPR while preserving public safety benefits.

SILVER SPRING, Md.—The Security Industry Association (SIA) has issued a call for the responsible and effective use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology and released policy principles designed to guide the development of administrative and legislative actions by states and federal governments.

“SIA firmly believes that all technology products, including automated license plate recognition, must only be used for purposes that are lawful, ethical and nondiscriminatory. We are proud to be the first industry trade association to publicly call for the responsible and effective use of this technology, which is an essential public safety tool,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson. “ALPR is not—and must never become—a tool for mass surveillance or tracking law-abiding citizens. Public policy governing the use of ALPR systems should ensure a heightened level of accountability for government use, provide strong prohibitions against misuse and authorize meaningful enforcement mechanisms. SIA stands ready to wholeheartedly support responsible and balanced approaches to ensuring appropriate use of ALPR in the public and commercial sectors.”

The guidance issued by SIA includes:

• An overview of ALPR technology and ALPR data
• How constitutional protections should be safeguarded when using ALPR systems
• An exploration of concerns around “warrantless” use of ALPR systems
• How policymakers should address concerns about ALPR
• Policy principles designed to guard against misuse, protect privacy, mitigate operational or procedural issues and ensure safeguards specific to law enforcement use, while preserving public safety benefits
• Examples of ALPR effectiveness and value
• Recommended law enforcement community resources on ALPR technology and policy

View SIA’s ALPR statement, policy principles and guidance here.

About SIA

SIA is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,700 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision-makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.