Texas Governor Greg Abbott has put the brakes on funding for Flock cameras, amid growing bipartisan opposition. The move comes after a damning investigation by the Texas Tribune revealed the state had spent over £30 million on the controversial AI surveillance systems, which were originally funded through a controversial insurance fee.
Their use has sparked ire across the political spectrum, with multiple incidents of misuse and privacy concerns leading to calls for their removal. From officers facing criminal charges to the placement of cameras near playgrounds, Flock systems have become a lightning rod for controversy.
Elsewhere, cities across the country have been phasing out Flock contracts, including many in Texas. Abbott’s Democratic rival, Gina Hinojosa, has lambasted him for expanding their use, while Republican Keith Self has warned of a growing surveillance state, with many citizens joining the chorus to destroy Flock cameras.
As the debate rages, it’s clear that AI surveillance is facing increasing pushback. Will other states follow Texas’s lead in rethinking their approach to technology in public safety?
