Virginia Advances Bill on License Plate Reader Data

In Virginia, a proposal to regulate the use of automated license plate readers is advancing through the General Assembly with significant amendments. House Bill 2724, initially proposing a 30-day limit on data retention, was revised to a 21-day limit after concerns about privacy and data misuse, including potential access by federal agencies. In Maryland, lawmakers are reconsidering a bill to introduce tiered fines for speed violations on Indian Head Highway to enhance safety, as the current flat fine does not deter high-speed offenders. Meanwhile, Indiana's Senate approved a bill requiring vehicle owners to update their registration after changing their vehicle's color to aid law enforcement with accurate tracking. In Washington state, legislators are considering a temporary halt on new specialty license plates to better manage the program after introducing several new designs, including those for Mount St. Helens and Smokey Bear. These legislative efforts reflect ongoing debates about balancing public safety, privacy, and the management of state programs.