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Council extends license-plate reader pilot despite civil-liberties concerns
Summary
By an 8-3 vote the council approved continuing an automated license-plate-reader (ALPR) pilot while opponents warned the data could be subpoenaed and used to target immigrants, protesters and people seeking reproductive or gender-affirming care.
The Austin City Council voted 8-3 on Thursday to extend the city—s automated license-plate-reader (ALPR) pilot program, prompting a heated debate about surveillance, data sharing and civil liberties.
The vote: Councilmember Ryan Alter moved to extend the pilot (item 103); the motion was seconded by Councilmember Jose Velasquez and passed 8-3. Councilmembers Mike Siegel, Chito Cadrey and Natasha Harper Madison recorded no votes.
Why it mattered: Supporters said ALPRs are a law-enforcement tool that helps recover stolen vehicles, locate suspects and solve property and violent crimes. Opponents argued that, despite internal safeguards, the system could be subpoenaed by state or federal authorities and used to target immigrants, protesters or people seeking reproductive or gender-affirming healthcare as legal and political landscapes change.
What councilmembers said: Councilmember Siegel said recent federal and state actions raised new risks and announced his opposition, saying that agencies outside the city have demonstrated willingness to use surveillance against vulnerable groups. Councilmember Harper Madison said she remained concerned about systemic inequities in policing and would vote no.
Public testimony: Dozens of speakers addressed the council. Civil-rights advocates including Mel LeBlanc (Vocal Texas) urged a no vote and warned of possible misuse, arguing that "continued use of ALPRs threatens to tear communities and families apart." Supporters such as Ashley Copeland of the Central Texas Public Safety Commission urged continuation, saying the technology helps solve crimes and that safeguards are in place.
Staff and department views: APD and city staff said the program includes restrictions and retention limits. Staff noted there had been no outside requests for ALPR data during the pilot and that the audit is pending. City staff said they would present the auditor—s report and APD—s findings to the council before any longer-term decisions.
Outcome and next steps: The pilot will continue while the council reviews the forthcoming audit and other materials. Several council members said they would weigh the auditor—s findings and may reconsider the program based on the data and recommended safeguards.
Speakers and votes: Notable speakers included Mel LeBlanc (opposed), Jay Popham (opposed), Ben Suddabee (opposed), and Ashley Copeland (support). The motion passed 8-3; no votes were cast by Mike Siegel, Chito Cadrey and Natasha Harper Madison.
