Penn. town could make surveillance mandatory

March 6, 2008 - On Tuesday night, the city of Bethlehem, Penn., began considering a proposal that would require surveillance systems at select businesses.

The proposal would require 24-hour surveillance (with color cameras) at businesses such as 24-hour convenience stores, check-cashing stores, banks and some retail shopping centers.

According to an article in The Express-Times newspaper, the proposal would create minimum standards on surveillance, including requirements of coverage at outside entrances, plus coverage around cash registers.

The security systems would be subject to checks by the police, and the proposal, if accepted, would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2009.