arrow_back Back to App

Protecting Car Data: Ending Warrantless Digital Searches

This new law aims to protect citizens' privacy by requiring law enforcement to obtain a court warrant before accessing data from vehicles. This means that data from your car's navigation, entertainment, or diagnostic systems will be safer from unauthorized access. The act establishes clear rules on when and how law enforcement can access this information, with exceptions for emergencies or with your consent.
Key points
Warrant Requirement: Law enforcement must obtain a court warrant to access data from your car (e.g., navigation, entertainment systems, cameras).
Your Consent: You can voluntarily consent to data access, but it must be informed and written, with information about your right to refuse.
Emergency Exceptions: Access without a warrant is only allowed in emergencies involving immediate danger to life or serious injury, and a warrant application must be submitted within 48 hours.
Event Data Recorders: Access to data from event data recorders (like 'black boxes') is only permitted in specific situations related to vehicle safety.
Evidence Restriction: Data obtained unlawfully cannot be used as evidence in court.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_6001
Sponsor: Rep. Khanna, Ro [D-CA-17]
Process start date: 2021-11-17
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Closing the Warrantless Digital Car Search Loophole Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_6001.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-11-17.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Warrant Requirement: Law enforcement must obtain a court warrant to access data from your car (e.g., navigation, entertainment systems, cameras).
  • Your Consent: You can voluntarily consent to data access, but it must be informed and written, with information about your right to refuse.
  • Emergency Exceptions: Access without a warrant is only allowed in emergencies involving immediate danger to life or serious injury, and a warrant application must be submitted within 48 hours.
  • Event Data Recorders: Access to data from event data recorders (like 'black boxes') is only permitted in specific situations related to vehicle safety.
  • Evidence Restriction: Data obtained unlawfully cannot be used as evidence in court.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Khanna, Ro [D-CA-17].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Security Transport