Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 26-18 in Jefferson City, establishing strict safeguards on the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology across Missouri. The order aims to prevent the misuse of personal location data collected from Missourians while preserving the legitimate applications of this technology for law enforcement agencies. This executive action responds to growing concerns about privacy and the potential for abuse of ALPR systems.
Governor Kehoe stated that protecting citizens involves safeguarding their constitutional rights. He expressed significant concern over the unchecked collection and indefinite storage of location data belonging to law-abiding individuals, calling it a substantial and valid constitutional issue. The Governor emphasized that the government should not build a permanent record of where law-abiding Missourians travel, who they visit, or how they conduct their daily lives. Executive Order 26-18 is presented as an initial step to create protections against data abuse, recognizing at the same time the public safety benefits these tools offer to law enforcement.
ALPR systems, including Flock Safety cameras deployed by various law enforcement agencies, automatically capture license plate and vehicle information as motorists drive on public roads. While this technology can significantly aid legitimate criminal investigations, recent reports have highlighted instances of improper searches and other misuse. These documented cases underscore a pressing need for stronger protections governing access to this information, its permitted uses, and its retention period.
Such instances of law enforcement data misuse include the September 2026 criminal arrest of a New York Sheriff’s investigator. This individual was arrested for using Flock Safety cameras to conduct unauthorized, unlawful searches. This event, among others, has brought to light national vulnerabilities and critical deficiencies in standard operating data protections, as well as in vendor transparency.
Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety, affirmed the value of ALPR systems. He noted they have proven to be a valuable tool for law enforcement agencies in their efforts to apprehend violent criminals, recover stolen vehicles, and locate missing or endangered individuals. Director James stated that with Executive Order 26-18, Governor Kehoe is making it clear that the state must establish a transparent and accountable legal framework. This framework, according to James, must equip law enforcement personnel with modern technology while simultaneously protecting the fundamental privacy rights and civil liberties of Missouri citizens. The Department of Public Safety anticipates collaborating with state and local law enforcement agencies, alongside members of the Missouri General Assembly, to implement this executive order.
Executive Order 26-18 specifically directs the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) to establish statewide safeguards. These safeguards will apply to all state agencies and any local law enforcement entities that receive state funding and utilize ALPR technology. The order specifies that any misuse of ALPR technology will trigger immediate disciplinary proceedings, along with a criminal referral where appropriate. Additionally, any such misuse will require a mandatory report to the Director of the DPS for consideration of officer license revocation or other disciplinary action.
Until the General Assembly enacts a permanent statutory framework, the executive order mandates several minimum standards for ALPR data handling. Most license plate and vehicle data must be permanently deleted within 30 days of collection. The order strictly prohibits vendors from selling, sharing, or commercializing any data generated within Missouri. Furthermore, the use of ALPR technology is to be limited solely to legitimate criminal justice and lifesaving purposes. The order also requires the implementation of accountability measures designed to prevent and penalize misuse of the technology. Finally, it prohibits the integration of artificial intelligence facial recognition technology with ALPR systems.
Local agencies are encouraged to voluntarily commit to adhering to these best practices, to the extent possible under their existing contracts and applicable law. This encouragement is part of a broader effort as stakeholders and lawmakers work towards developing a comprehensive statutory framework for ALPR technology in Missouri.