In a move aimed at balancing public safety with personal privacy, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has called for a temporary halt on the expansion of Flock Safety surveillance cameras in the town of Tiverton. The decision comes in the wake of growing concerns over the use of such technology and the potential for data breaches.
Governor McKee ordered a 60-day review to establish new statewide standards for the deployment of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras like those produced by Flock Safety. "Public safety and personal privacy are not mutually exclusive," he stated in a press release. "Rhode Island needs clear and consistent rules of the road for this technology."
The governor's proclamation, while not legally binding, has influenced local officials in Tiverton. At a town council meeting on August 24, local officials decided to follow the state's lead and delay the installation of four new Flock cameras that were originally approved by the council on July 27. Council President John G. Edwards emphasized the importance of aligning with the state's request.
As of August 28, the contract for the new cameras has not been signed, and the two cameras already in operation by the Tiverton police department remain active. However, the state police's two Flock cameras in Tiverton may continue to operate as well, according to McKee's proclamation.
Governor McKee's action is part of a broader effort to address the use of ALPR technology across the state. He has expressed the need to examine how these systems are being used and to implement strong safeguards to protect both public safety and personal privacy. While only the state Legislature can force municipalities to change their use of Flock cameras, McKee's guidelines are expected to take the form of recommendations or "best practices."
Tiverton Town Solicitor Michael Marcello has been in discussions with Flock representatives regarding the town's contract. He noted that he was "pretty close" to finalizing the agreement before the state's request for a pause. Marcello also mentioned that he had convinced Flock to include a clause allowing Tiverton to back out of the agreement in case of a data breach.
The town's initial vote to purchase the new cameras took place without the full council present. Councilor Michael Berk expressed concern about the process, noting that the item was put back on the agenda when most of the council was absent, including members who had previously expressed concerns about the cameras.
Despite the delay, the existing Flock cameras continue to operate in Tiverton. The debate over their use underscores the ongoing national conversation about the balance between public safety and privacy in the age of advanced surveillance technology.
Governor McKee's decision to pause the expansion of Flock cameras in Tiverton is a significant step in addressing the concerns of both residents and law enforcement agencies. As the state reviews the use of such technology, it remains to be seen how the balance between public safety and personal privacy will be achieved in Rhode Island and beyond.
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