Missouri Governor Signs Executive Order on Automated License Plate Readers

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed an executive order aimed at establishing safeguards for automated license plate readers, including Flock cameras. Kehoe stated that the order is designed to protect residents' constitutional rights and prevent misuse of the license plate readers, which includes data collected by Flock Safety. "The unchecked collection and indefinite storage of location data belonging to law-abiding citizens raises substantial, valid constitutional and privacy concerns," Kehoe wrote. He emphasized that the government should not maintain a permanent record of the movements of law-abiding citizens. The order instructs the Missouri Department of Public Safety to develop safeguards for state agencies and state-funded law enforcement departments that utilize automatic license plate readers. Kehoe noted that any misuse of these cameras would lead to immediate criminal referrals, disciplinary actions, and potential revocation of officer licenses. He encouraged local agencies to adopt similar practices when feasible under current contracts and laws, describing the executive order as a preliminary measure until state lawmakers can address the issue. Public Safety Director Mark James expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the need for guardrails while acknowledging the cameras' utility in law enforcement. Flock Safety cameras have faced scrutiny recently, with privacy advocates raising concerns about data access and collection practices. St. Charles County Police recently banned Flock cameras after a former civilian employee misused the data, while other law enforcement agencies have also faced criticism regarding their use of the technology.