Austin is weighing what comes next after ending its Flock license plate reader pilot. Central Texas cities including Pflugerville, Bastrop, Elgin, Manor and Leander have moved away from the cameras. Austin officials had already decided to part ways with Flock, but they have not ruled out another vendor. Police Chief Lisa Davis has not publicly said whether the department will recommend a new system. The City Council approved new surveillance-technology protections in April. Austin police continue to receive license-plate data from other agencies. Assistant Police Chief JJ Schmidt said officers do not directly access an automated license plate reader database. Council members remain split over whether the technology should be used at all. Some support tighter controls, while others oppose any automated license plate reader program. The TRUST Act requires council approval, a privacy assessment and a written use policy. Statewide backlash is growing as more details emerge about Flock cameras across Texas. Austin’s next move remains unresolved as the city debates privacy, oversight and public safety.
