Gov. Ferguson signs bipartisan law limiting use and sharing of automated license-plate reader data

Gov. Ferguson signed Senate Bill 6002 into law during a brief ceremony, describing the measure as a bipartisan effort to let law enforcement use automated license-plate reading systems while guarding the sensitive data those systems generate.

The law prohibits cameras near sensitive locations, including protected health-care providers and courts, and limits how long agencies and companies can retain the data those systems produce. ‘‘The sharing with Immigration Customs Enforcement is prohibited under this bill,’’ Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, the bill’s prime sponsor, said during brief remarks thanking advocates and municipal partners. Trudeau said the statute creates ‘‘clear enforcement’’ through both a private right of action and Consumer Protection Act enforcement by the state attorney general against companies that violate the restrictions.

Trudeau told the crowd the bill also gives legislators the ability to request audits and allows ‘‘bona fide research institutions’’ to access records under the bill’s privacy protections. She said those three elements — clear rules, enforceable penalties, and auditability — were central priorities in drafting the measure.

The governor handed the pen to Sen. Trudeau for the ceremonial signing and invited sponsors and advocates to pose for photos. The event was short and ceremonial; no votes or amendments were taken during the ceremony.

What happens next: The law takes effect under the schedule set by the bill (not specified during the ceremony). Advocates and local governments that participated in the process were acknowledged by sponsors during remarks.