Vote set for next week on ordinance over Little Rock police surveillance technology

October 28, 2026 - 10:46

An ordinance that sets transparency requirements for the Little Rock Police Department's use of surveillance technology has remained largely unchanged since it was first proposed almost a year ago, but its sponsor told the city's Board of Directors on Tuesday that circumstances have shifted significantly since then.

The sponsor said the environment in the world is different now, suggesting that recent events have made the need for clear rules around surveillance tools more urgent. The proposal is meant to establish how the department reports on and seeks approval for equipment that can monitor or collect data on residents.

Board members are set to vote on the measure next week. If approved, the ordinance would create a formal process for reviewing surveillance technology before it is acquired and require public reporting on how such tools are used. Supporters argue the rules would build trust between residents and police, while the department has raised concerns about operational flexibility and the time required to comply with new reporting duties. The board is expected to debate the details once more before the vote.