Worried about surveillance, states enact privacy laws and restrict license plate readers

By: Shalina Chatlani

Outlets: Stateline

Published: January 8, 2026

Words: 1,242

Last Updated: 2 weeks ago

Body Text Preview

As part of its deportation efforts, the Trump administration has ordered states to hand over personal data from voter rolls, driver’s license records and programs such as Medicaid and food stamps.

At the same time, the administration is trying to consolidate the bits of personal data held across federal agencies, creating a single trove of information on people who live in the United States.

Many left-leaning states and cities are trying to protect their …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us