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Miami, FL - Several South Florida mayors are asking state officials to delay the removal of automated license plate readers from state-controlled roads.
Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner sent a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue requesting a pause in the state's 30-day removal deadline.
Mayors from Bay Harbor Islands, Bal Harbour Village, Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Golden Beach and Indian Creek Village also signed the letter.
The officials acknowledged privacy concerns involving data retention, access and oversight but argued that removing every camera without a transition process could affect public safety.
They requested a system allowing law enforcement agencies to continue using the technology under stronger state oversight, auditing requirements and data management standards.
The mayors also asked to participate in developing statewide regulations.
FDOT revoked permits for license plate readers located within State Highway System rights of way on August 31st.
The department also stopped approving new installations and said it would remove cameras remaining after the deadline.
The order does not prohibit cameras on city streets, county roads, private property or other locations outside FDOT jurisdiction.
Meiner said Miami Beach operates about 40 license plate readers, with approximately half located on state roads.
Affected routes include Collins Avenue, Alton Road, parts of 41st Street and causeways connecting the city to the mainland.
He said the cameras have helped police locate fleeing suspects, recover stolen vehicles, seize illegal weapons and investigate violent crimes.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office announced it would disable cameras on FDOT infrastructure and suspend its entire license plate reader program.