Washington lawmakers are considering companion bills that would regulate the use of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR). While the intent is to strengthen privacy protections, WR is actively engaged to ensure the proposals do not unintentionally limit retailers’ ability to prevent retail theft and organized retail crime.
The bills heard this session:
- SB 6002, prime sponsored by Sen. Trudeau (D-27), was heard in the Senate Law & Justice Committee
- HB 2332, prime sponsored by Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-48), was heard in the House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee
What the Bills Would Do
If enacted, the companion bills would:
- Set new limits on how ALPR data may be collected, used, retained, and shared
- Require heightened legal standards in certain situations before law enforcement can access ALPR data
- Restrict ALPR use primarily to serious or felony-level criminal activity
- Create new compliance, reporting, and oversight requirements for ALPR users
Why This Matters for Retailers
In their current form, the bills could have real-world impacts on retailers’ ability to keep stores and communities safe, including:
- Delays or restrictions when retailers share ALPR data with law enforcement after being victimized
- Reduced ability to identify repeat offenders or organized retail theft patterns early
- Fewer tools to intervene before theft escalates into more dangerous or violent incidents
- Increased operational and compliance burdens tied to ALPR use
Taken together, these changes could make it harder for retailers to protect employees, customers, and property.
The Path Forward
WR is actively working with Sen. Trudeau, Rep. Salahuddin, committee members, and ALPR technology providers to pursue targeted amendments that balance privacy safeguards with practical public safety needs.
WR will continue to keep members informed as discussions progress and the legislation moves forward.
