The San Marcos City Council held a work session on March 18, 2025, focusing on updates to the police department's license plate reader (LPR) policy. Key discussions centered around data sharing protocols, privacy protections, and the implications of surveillance technology on vulnerable populations.

Council members expressed a desire to enhance protections against surveillance based on economic status, ensuring that individuals who are poor, homeless, or indigent are not disproportionately targeted. This amendment received unanimous support from the council, highlighting a commitment to safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities.

The meeting also addressed the sharing of data with other law enforcement agencies. Chief of Police emphasized that data sharing is strictly limited to law enforcement entities and that private entities providing LPR data cannot access San Marcos police data. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) will be required for outside agencies to access the LPR system, ensuring that any queries made must be tied to an investigative need, thereby promoting accountability.

Concerns were raised regarding the potential for misuse of data, particularly in light of current political climates affecting issues such as immigration and reproductive rights. Council members debated the adequacy of existing safeguards and discussed the need for stricter protocols before sharing information with outside agencies. Suggestions included requiring prior approval from the Chief of Police or their designee for all external queries, although this proposal faced pushback due to concerns about the feasibility of such a requirement given current staffing levels.

The council acknowledged the importance of balancing community safety with privacy rights, with members advocating for policies that anticipate future challenges. The discussions underscored the council's commitment to ensuring that surveillance practices are transparent and accountable, reflecting the values of the San Marcos community.

As the council moves forward, further amendments to the LPR policy will be considered to enhance privacy protections and clarify definitions related to outside agencies. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for ongoing dialogue about the implications of surveillance technology in law enforcement practices.