# Texas Lawmakers Propose ALPR Restrictions

Texas lawmakers have proposed bills that could prohibit or sharply restrict public agencies’ use of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs), require warrants for their use, and end state grants for purchasing the systems. The proposals create regulatory and funding uncertainty for Flock camera deployments ahead of the 90th Texas legislative session, which begins in January 2027. State funding for the systems was frozen in August, and no solicitation is identified; an August investigation reported that more than $30 million had been allocated through grants to help local police departments install Flock cameras.

- The bills are proposals, not enacted restrictions. Agencies and contractors should distinguish current purchasing authority from potential changes to ALPR use, warrant requirements, and grant eligibility.
- Local agencies considering deployments should account for the reported funding freeze and avoid treating the previously allocated grant funding as an open procurement opportunity.
- Flock Safety and other ALPR suppliers may face reduced public-sector demand in Texas if the proposals advance or state grants end; no specific contract opportunity or solicitation is identified.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Policy
**Published:** November 12, 2026

### Government Entities
- Texas Legislature
- Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA)
- Texas Department of Public Safety (Texas DPS)
- Amarillo Police Department

### Vendors
- Flock Safety (ALPR camera manufacturer)

### Key Quotes
> That means we must pull in the Constitutional reins on new technologies that can arbitrarily invade a person's life, home, or property.
> — Lois Kolkhorst, Texas state senator

### Sources
- [Texas Flock cameras face new restrictions under proposed bills  | San Luis Obispo Tribune](https://www.sanluisobispo.com/news/nation-world/national/article318047514.html) - San Luis Obispo Tribune