Thompson Statement on DHS License Plate Reader Solicitation
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement regarding news that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pulled its solicitation for a National License Plate Recognition Database using license plate reader technology:
I am pleased that DHS realized its error and has withdrawn the solicitation for a 'National License Plate Recognition Database'. The solicitation called for a large amount of personally identifiable information to be collected and used by ICE – all without apparent privacy and civil liberties safeguards or impact assessments. The solicitation was posted without knowledge of ICE leadership – which highlights a serious management problem within this DHS component that currently does not have a Director nominated by the President. When ICE chooses to implement new, expansive technologies in the future, it is my hope that it engages its leadership and the Privacy and Civil Rights & Civil Liberties Offices.
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Media Contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978
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