Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed state agencies to pause funding for Flock Safety’s AI-powered cameras, citing privacy concerns. Abbott’s office told Fox News Digital that most funding for the cameras comes from the federal government, and Texas agencies are clarifying that their funds cannot be used for Flock cameras.
Most Flock cameras in Texas are operated by cities, many of which are canceling their contracts. Abbott’s spokesperson, Andrew Mahaleris, said cities are increasingly ending their agreements with Flock. “To the extent that cities get any funding for those cameras, most of it comes from the federal government,” Mahaleris said.
Flock Safety, a leading provider of automated license plate readers, photographs passing vehicles and records identifying details. Law enforcement agencies use the data to search across networks for suspects, stolen vehicles, and related crimes. Supporters argue the technology enhances public safety, while opponents raise privacy, data sharing, and misuse concerns.
Several Texas cities and counties have already severed ties with Flock Safety. The Pflugerville City Council recently voted to end its agreement, disabling its 28 cameras. Hood County also decided to disconnect and cover its three cameras until they can be removed.
In a Friday radio interview, Abbott noted that local governments are canceling contracts amid pressure from residents, according to the Texas Tribune. A Flock Safety spokesperson defended the technology, emphasizing its role in solving crimes and supporting community safety. They also called for legislation to ensure responsible use with privacy safeguards.
The Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority, created to combat vehicle theft and related crimes, helped install more than 3,000 Flock cameras since 2023 using funds from a law that added $1 to vehicle insurance policies. The law aimed to address catalytic converter theft, with no prior legislative discussion about funding Flock cameras.
Criticism extends beyond Texas. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., has called for investigations into Flock Safety’s extensive surveillance network, which reportedly includes more than 120,000 cameras across 49 states and over 20 billion vehicle scans monthly. Hawley is examining who has access to the data collected from millions of vehicles.
Earlier this month, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller urged Abbott to halt new surveillance technology purchases in an op-ed. The ongoing scrutiny highlights the debate over balancing public safety and privacy in surveillance technology deployment.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
