A grassroots movement against automated license plate readers (ALPRs) has grown across the United States. ALPRs are AI-powered cameras that capture images of passing vehicles, converting details like license plate numbers and vehicle make into searchable data. These systems are widely used, with over 130,000 ALPRs deployed nationwide and more than 5,000 law enforcement agencies relying on cameras made by Flock Safety, a major manufacturer. Flock claims its technology has helped police identify criminals and reduce crime. However, concerns have arisen over misuse of the data collected by these systems. Some law enforcement officers have exploited ALPR data for personal reasons. In April 2023, a Kansas officer was placed on 18 months of probation for using Flock cameras to stalk his ex-wife. In March 2026, a Florida officer was fired and arrested for using ALPR data to stalk a woman he had previously harassed. In 2021, activists in California sued local police departments for sharing ALPR data with out-of-state and federal agencies, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. These incidents have fueled public concern about the privacy implications of ALPRs. Public outrage has led to significant pushback against ALPRs. Cities have canceled contracts with Flock Safety, and in September 2026, Florida’s Department of Transportation revoked permits for ALPRs on its highways. Despite these actions, the backlash continues. In at least 36 states, opponents have resorted to destroying or disabling ALPRs, believing that waiting for government action is too slow. Some observers draw historical parallels between the current resistance to ALPRs and the American Revolution. A historian noted that the growing, bipartisan opposition to ALPRs reflects a similar spirit of resistance that once drove colonists to challenge British rule. During the 18th century, colonists resisted British efforts to impose taxes and control trade, leading to events like the Boston Tea Party and the eventual American Revolution. The British government’s attempts to enforce control over the colonies often led to increased tensions. After the French and Indian War, new taxes and laws were imposed on the American colonies to fund military protection. This led to widespread protests, boycotts, and acts of defiance. The Sons of Liberty, a group of radical colonists, engaged in both nonviolent and violent resistance, including the destruction of British property and the public humiliation of loyalists. Today, Flock Safety CEO Garett Langley has invoked history to defend the use of ALPRs. In a 2026 blog post, he referenced Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote about liberty and safety, arguing that Americans should not abandon privacy for security. In an interview, Langley compared the debate over ALPRs to past safety regulations, such as the introduction of seat belts in cars. However, the legacy of figures like Samuel Adams, who emphasized the defense of liberty, continues to shape the modern resistance. His belief in the unity of Americans against oppression remains relevant in today’s movement against ALPRs.