Ulster County Executive Announces a New Ban on Flock Cameras

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has signed an executive order that will prohibit county departments and employees from using Flock cameras and other artificial intelligence-assisted surveillance technologies.

If you've been following the debate over Flock cameras in the Hudson Valley, you know that these high-tech surveillance systems have become a hot topic in communities across the region. While supporters say the cameras can help police investigate crimes and track down suspects, others have raised concerns about how much information they collect and who has access to it.

Now, Ulster County is taking a stand on the issue.

Flock Cameras Banned by Ulster County

On Thursday, October 22, Metzger signed Executive Order No. 5 of 2026, which immediately prohibits the use of Flock cameras and similar AI-assisted surveillance technologies by departments, divisions, and employees under the County Executive's authority.

Flock Cameras Banned in Ulster County, NY

Why Ulster County Is Banning Flock Cameras

According to the executive order, the county believes protecting public safety must be balanced with safeguarding residents' constitutional rights and personal privacy. The order explains that modern surveillance technology goes beyond simply recording video. Systems like Flock can use automated tools to analyze information collected from multiple cameras and integrate it with data from other sources.

The county also raised concerns about security breaches involving AI-assisted surveillance technology and the possibility that information collected through these systems could be shared with outside parties without authorization.

Metzger noted that Ulster County government does not currently own, license or deploy surveillance technology with these capabilities.

What the Executive Order Prohibits

Under the new order, county departments and employees under Metzger's authority cannot purchase, acquire, deploy, or use Flock cameras or similar AI-assisted camera technologies that could be used for surveillance purposes.

The restrictions also prohibit county departments from authorizing vendors or contractors to use the technology on the county's behalf.

Additionally, the order prevents those operating under the County Executive's authority from providing assistance to individuals or companies deploying AI-assisted camera systems. That includes county funding, employee time, technical expertise, operational feedback, records or data, except when disclosure is required by law.

SEE ALSO: Rhinebeck Man Accused of Setting Flock Camera on Fire

The order defines AI-assisted surveillance technology broadly, including tools that can help identify or track people and vehicles, analyze movements, map associations, use facial recognition and generate investigative summaries.

Camera on Road in Fishkill, NY

Does This Mean All Flock Cameras in Ulster County Are Banned?

Not necessarily.

The executive order applies to departments, divisions, and employees under the authority of the County Executive. It does not automatically prohibit every municipality, police department, or other government entity in Ulster County from using Flock cameras. The order also does not establish a countywide ban covering every private or independently operated surveillance system.

Metzger's executive order took effect immediately upon signing and will remain in place until it is superseded or revoked.