What does the Flock-Off Act actually cut off for cities using license-plate cameras?

Federal money stops at the camera purchase

The legislation prohibits federal funds from being used to purchase, install, maintain, operate, or upgrade automated license plate readers and biometric surveillance cameras. Federal funding also cannot cover contracts, subscriptions, cloud services, databases, or data-sharing arrangements connected to those systems. The ban extends to AI-augmented readers. No exceptions beyond these.

Agencies must rip out existing systems in 180 days

Federal agencies have to remove any federally funded camera systems already in place. State and local recipients must stop operating them within 180 days as a condition of continued funding under the relevant federal program. Federal program funds are withheld until violations of the spending prohibitions are repaid to the United States Treasury.

Biometric data gets a specific list

The definition covers facial recognition and voiceprints. It also covers iris scans, retinal scans, and fingerprints. Gait recognition rounds out the list.

Two narrow exceptions survive

Cameras located within one mile of the Northern and Southern Border may keep federal funding if they are used for the detection and interdiction of unlawful entry, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. Automated license plate readers used for the sole purpose of collecting, administering, or enforcing tolls are also exempt.

Where the bill text goes silent

The document does not say how many cameras currently rely on federal grants. It does not estimate how many municipalities would lose funding. Enforcement beyond the funding cutoff is not detailed in the text.