ALPRs are being installed across the country with little transparency. Public records requests allow us to track where these cameras are, ensuring that all installations are documented.
Your help is crucial. Filing a public records request is easy, and your contribution will help us build a complete map of these surveillance networks. We'll even link you to several hundred examples to follow.[1]
Browse Muckrock for examples of public records requests related to ALPRs. Use these as templates to draft your own request. Here are some common requests you can adapt:
If you need help tailoring this to your situation, appealing rejections, etc., ChatGPT is a great resource.
A public records request is a formal way to ask government agencies for public records. Laws vary by state, but most allow residents to request documents such as contracts, emails, and invoices.
Most states allow anyone to file a public records request, while some restrict it to state residents.
Invoices, contracts, emails, and other documents related to government spending and agreements with companies, including these surveillance companies.
Agencies may reject requests for various reasons, but you can often appeal. Let us know if you encounter issues, and we can help.
Typically, yes. Many states allow you to submit public records requests anonymously or through an alias. If anonymity is important to you, consider using a disposable email address and avoiding personally identifying information in your request. If you're requesting records from a state that requires residency, you may need to provide an in-state address.