This legislative session, there are two bills in the Missouri Senate aimed at the use of automated license plate reader systems (“ALPRs”) by state agencies and political subdivisions.
These bills, SB 1334 and SB 1377, propose to amend Chapter 590 RSMo. by adding a new section, 590.1100, relating to automated license plate reader systems. This proposed statute states:
“No agency or political subdivision of this state shall purchase, install, or use any automated license plate reader system, or access or use captured plate data captured from vehicles located on a public highway.”
The statute also provides the following definitions:
(1) “Automated license plate reader system”, a system of one or more cameras combined with computer algorithms to convert images of license plates into data readable by a computer;
(2) “Captured plate data”, the global positioning device coordinates, date and time, photograph, license plate number, and any other data captured by an automated license plate reader system;
(3) “License plate”, the same meaning as is ascribed to such term or the term “registration plate” in chapter 301;
(4) “Public highway”, any public thoroughfare for vehicles, including state highways, county roads, and public streets, avenues, boulevards, parkways, and alleys in any municipality.
However, the proposed statute does not apply “to automated license plate reader systems affixed to vehicles occupied by a peace officer”, so it appears that the use of those types of systems by law enforcement would still be allowable. Additionally, the proposed section also does not apply “to the accessing or use of captured plate data captured by a third-party vendor in accordance with sections 303.420 to 303.440”, which is the Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Enforcement and Compliance Incentive Program.
It is also worth noting that the proposed legislation does not differentiate between ALPRs owned and operated by the government or those installed by non-governmental entities such as Flock for government. Both would be affected. Interestingly, the legislation would not prohibit HOAs or other private entities from using ALPRs.
At this time, both bills are in the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee.
Please note, these summaries are not exhaustive, and you should consult with your city attorney if you have additional questions regarding the full text of the proposed legislation.