Kearny Police Chief opposes LB616 automated license plate reader regulations

In the early hours of March 29, 2025, the Nebraska Legislature's Judiciary Committee convened to discuss a contentious piece of legislation, LB616, which has sparked significant debate among law enforcement officials and community leaders. The atmosphere in Room 1525 was charged as members of the Judiciary Committee listened intently to testimonies from various stakeholders, including police chiefs and sheriff's deputies, who voiced their concerns about the bill's implications for public safety.

Bridal Waugh, the Chief of Police for Kearney and president of the Police Chiefs Association of Nebraska, opened the discussion with a strong opposition to LB616. He emphasized the critical role that Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) play in enhancing public safety. Waugh highlighted that these technologies have proven invaluable in crime investigations, providing real-time alerts for stolen vehicles and aiding in the recovery of missing persons. With Kearney boasting the largest deployment of ALPRs in the state, Waugh underscored the importance of maintaining their current use for crime prevention rather than shifting their focus to traffic enforcement.

Echoing Waugh's sentiments, William Wrillin, Chief Deputy Administrator for the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, expressed concerns about the potential disruption to community trust and the effectiveness of crime-solving efforts if ALPRs were repurposed for traffic violations. Wrillin noted that the success of their traffic safety initiatives relies heavily on direct interactions with citizens, which could be undermined by the proposed legislation.

The testimonies also touched on the broader implications of traffic safety measures. While acknowledging the need to address right-of-way violations, Waugh pointed out studies suggesting that red light cameras could inadvertently increase the likelihood of rear-end collisions as drivers slam on their brakes to avoid fines. This perspective added a layer of complexity to the discussion, as committee members grappled with the balance between enforcing traffic laws and ensuring overall road safety.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the opposition to LB616 was not merely about technology but also about the fundamental principles of community policing and the relationship between law enforcement and the public. The committee heard from various opponents, including Scott Thomas, who raised concerns about due process and the potential for overreach in law enforcement practices.

In total, the committee received six proponent testimonies, eleven opponents, and one neutral comment regarding LB616. As the session drew to a close, Senator Kavanaugh, who introduced the bill, acknowledged the diverse perspectives shared during the hearing. He expressed a commitment to exploring alternative solutions to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to traffic safety that considers both technology and community engagement.

The discussions in Room 1525 highlighted the ongoing struggle to find effective solutions to traffic safety while preserving the trust and cooperation of the communities served by law enforcement. As the committee deliberates on the future of LB616, the voices of those who testified will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of this pivotal legislation.