Gallagher raises privacy concerns about automated license plate readers amid Chico controversy
North State Congressman James Gallagher says automated license plate reader cameras can help police solve crimes, but he also thinks stronger safeguards are needed.
The Republican congressman was in Chico Thursday to promote his newly introduced Representation Act, a bill that would set nationwide rules for congressional redistricting.
NSPR asked him if he had concerns about license plate reader cameras.
The issue has drawn scrutiny in Chico since reporting by ChicoSol last month revealed Chico police had shared data with ICE and other out-of-state agencies, possibly violating California law.
Here’s what Gallagher had to say about both issues.
Gallagher said the AI-powered cameras can be a useful tool, but he said more needs to be done to ensure the technology isn’t used to invade an individual's privacy.
“We obviously should enforce against any bad actor to the fullest extent of the law,” Gallagher said. “But let’s also have things in place that prevent that information from being sha…