In a move that aligns with concerns from many faith‑based and family‑focused communities about government overreach, Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie introduced House Resolution 10221, dubbed the “Flock‑Off Act.” The bill seeks to prohibit the use of federal dollars for the purchase, installation, operation, or maintenance of real‑time surveillance cameras such as the Flock system, as well as related AI‑augmented license‑plate readers and biometric cameras.
Key provisions of the bill
The legislation would prevent any state, local, or tribal government from using federal grants to fund the acquisition or upkeep of these camera systems. It also bars the use of federal money for contracts, subscription services, cloud storage, databases, or data‑sharing arrangements tied to the equipment.
Massie warned that federal “security” grants have turned many communities into a modern‑day version of George Orwell’s 1984. He argued that taxpayers should not be forced to finance a surveillance state that monitors law‑abiding citizens.
Enforcement and exceptions
If the bill becomes law, federal agencies would be required to remove any camera systems installed with federal assistance. State and local entities would have 180 days to disable those systems or risk losing eligibility for other federal programs.
The bill does carve out narrow exceptions: cameras used for toll enforcement and those located within one mile of the Northern or Southern borders for the detection and interdiction of unlawful entry, human trafficking, and drug smuggling would remain eligible for funding.
Context and reaction
Massie’s proposal follows growing national debate over the balance between public safety and individual liberty. While supporters praise the effort as a defense of constitutional rights and parental‑rights to privacy, critics argue that surveillance tools can be vital for law‑enforcement effectiveness.
The resolution now heads to committee, where it will face scrutiny from both privacy advocates and officials who contend that modern surveillance technology is essential for protecting communities.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
