New JerseyPolice would need warrants for some license plate reader searches
New Jersey police would need warrants to search records from plate readers using artificial intelligence when investigating people or vehicles seen in at least two places, except for watchlist alerts.
What it does
Police would need a judge’s warrant to use covered plate reader records when investigating people or vehicles seen in at least two locations. Police watchlist alerts would be exempt.
Police would delete stored plate reader records within 90 days of collection, with exceptions for ongoing court matters, evidence-sharing duties, and federal or court requirements.
Argument forRequiring a judge’s approval for access to some travel records could protect drivers from searches that lack enough evidence.
Argument againstGetting a judge’s warrant could delay police access to travel records when investigating people or vehicles recorded in at least two places.
More detail
Police would need warrants before accessing certain license plate reader records. The rule would cover investigations of people or vehicles identified in at least two locations by readers that compare images with databases and generate information using artificial intelligence. Alerts matching police watchlists would be exempt. Federally owned or operated readers would be excluded. The requirement would take effect immediately upon enactment.
Police would automatically and permanently delete stored plate reader records within 90 days of collection. The rule would cover collected images and information generated from them by covered readers, excluding federally owned or operated readers. Police could keep records connected to an ongoing court process or needed to provide evidence under court rules. The rule would allow compliance with federal law, a court order, or a warrant. The requirement would take effect immediately upon enactment.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 15Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness CommitteeIntroduced
AI & PrivacyCriminal JusticePublic Safety