New technologies are constantly emerging and creating novel issues, and opportunities, for local governments. These technologies come in many forms and service various markets, often threatening to disrupt the status quo and create regulatory issues for localities.

Best Best & Krieger attorneys recently led a discussion of “disruptive technologies” affecting cities at the International Municipal Lawyers Association Conference. Below are the topics discussed and links to the handouts. These handouts are meant only as discussion starters and we welcome your input on the issues your local government agency is facing, and the possible solutions.

• Transportation Network Companies such as Uber and Lyft, which connect users and drivers through peer-to-peer networks and threaten to upend the traditional taxicab industry.
• Body Worn Cameras, which are quickly being adopted by police departments nationwide in the wake of the shooting death of Michael Brown.
• The impacts of Online Property Rental Marketplaces (such as Airbnb) and the emerging “sharing economy.”
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (aka “Drones”), which are quickly expanding from their military origins to be adapted by domestic agencies, businesses and private hobbyists.
• Small Cells and distributed antenna systems, which are transforming the way cell companies, and thus localities, think about cell-site facilities and coverage.
• E-cigarettes, which are promoted as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, but raise regulatory questions all their own.
• Automated License Plate Readers, which allow public safety agencies and other governmental entities to photograph, store and cross-reference thousands of vehicle license plates a day.

Best Best & Krieger is committed to monitoring these and new disruptive technologies as they develop, and to working with local governments to determine the best way to respond to these changes, seizing opportunities and mitigating potential problems that may arise.