Knox County, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – Tennessee lawmakers are signaling that new regulations could be on the way for automated license plate reader systems as concerns continue to grow over privacy, data collection and government surveillance.
The debate intensified following plans by the Knox County Sheriff’s Office to install nearly 300 additional Flock cameras throughout Knox County using grant funding. While installation of new cameras has been paused, existing cameras remain operational, and lawmakers at both the state and federal levels are now discussing potential restrictions.
Zachary Calls for Stronger Data Controls
State Representative Jason Zachary, a Knox County Republican, said his concerns center on how information collected by Flock camera systems is accessed and shared.
Zachary said he believes law enforcement can benefit from license plate reader technology when proper safeguards are in place.
“Talk to our local law enforcement, KPD. I was with them this afternoon. They do it really well. They have really tight policies and procedures,” Zachary said.
However, Zachary expressed concern about reports that data collected through some Flock systems could be more widely accessible.
“It is my understanding that Flock, many Flock systems have an open system to where the data can be accessed,” Zachary said. “So if you’re going to use these cameras, it’s got to be closed.”
Zachary said he plans to spend the coming months discussing possible legislative solutions before lawmakers reconvene in Nashville in January.
Gloria Johnson Questions Need for Cameras
State Representative Gloria Johnson, a Knoxville Democrat, raised even broader concerns about the technology.
Johnson questioned whether license plate reader systems are necessary and argued they create significant privacy risks.
“We’re seeing problems with them, but it’s warrantless mass surveillance,” Johnson said. “People that expect to be in a place of privacy and they are not.”
Johnson’s comments echo concerns voiced by several Knox County leaders who have questioned whether expanding the camera network could allow government agencies to track the movements of law-abiding citizens.
Burchett Takes Issue to Washington
The debate has also reached Capitol Hill.
Congressman Tim Burchett has introduced federal legislation that would prohibit federal funds from being used to purchase automated license plate reader systems.
Burchett said he understands the value of the technology as an investigative tool but believes stronger limits are needed.
“I think people are very much alarmed at the amount of cameras that we do have,” Burchett said.
“It’s a great tool for law enforcement where it’s used. I just want to make sure we’re not abusing it.”
The proposed bill would limit federal involvement in acquiring or expanding the technology.
Knox County Continues Review
The local debate remains active as Knox County commissioners seek additional information from the Sheriff’s Office regarding existing cameras and future plans.
Knox County Commission recently voted to continue discussions about the program and request more details about camera operations, data retention and privacy protections.
Meanwhile, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs has publicly called for stronger state and federal regulations before any large-scale expansion moves forward.
What’s Next?
While no new cameras are currently being installed, Tennessee lawmakers are expected to continue reviewing the issue in advance of the 2027 legislative session.
For now, the conversation appears to be shifting from whether license plate reader technology should exist to how it should be regulated.
With lawmakers from both parties raising concerns and a federal proposal now under consideration, license plate readers are likely to remain a major public policy issue in East Tennessee and beyond.
