Digit ID Should Be a Choice Not a Mandate
In Missouri, freedom, privacy, and safety are priorities. We should never sacrifice any part of these values because technology advances. As government and private entities increasingly move toward digital identification systems, serious questions arise about privacy, security, access, and control over our most personal information.
SB 921 is about protecting your freedom to choose.
It ensures that no Missourian is forced into using a digital form of identification and that a non-digital option will always remain available. This legislation recognizes the convenience technology can offer while protecting our citizens against mandates that could expose them to surveillance, data breaches, discrimination, and more.
SB 921 puts the safety & security of our people first.
What SB 921 Does
- Prohibits public entities from requiring a digital form of identification. A physical form of ID must always be offered as a choice.
- Anyone who has agreed to use a digital form of ID, must always be permitted to view, correct, remove, destroy or restrict the usage of the digital ID.
- Written consent must be given by the individual for each purpose for which the digital ID will be used.
- Personal data may only be collected by a public entity for the purpose stated and only with consent of each individual. Personal data may not be sold or transferred to any public or private entity without written consent.
- A digital form of ID will not be required by any public entity for entry into any place of public accommodation.
- Cause of action suits may be brought for violations.
- Drivers licenses are prohibited from being connected to automated license plate readers.
Why It Matters
Loss of Liberty
Digital ID systems have the potential to be the source of tracking, tracing and inventorying of everything about your personal life.
From your medical records to the drive through order you place at lunch time, there is potential for 24/7 surveillance and monitoring without transparency or consent. This could destroy liberty and privacy.
The purpose of the government is to protect freedom & liberty, NOT erode it through these types of mandates.
Security
Centralized ID systems are incredibly valuable to criminals. That puts you at risk. Identity theft, account takeovers, phishing attacks and data breaches cause long term harm that can damage finances, families, reputations, credit scores and so much more.
Security depends on design and oversight usually done by one or more third parties. Risks are significant.
Access
Many Missourians may not own or want to rely on digital technology. Especially among our senior citizens, this could create a serious problem for equal access to services.
Be Part of the Solution
- Please share this article with your friends & family.
- Contact your senator and let them know you’d like to see them support SB 921 and any measures that would allow you to always have a choice regarding your personal identification. Use the link below to find your legislator's contact information.
- Subscribe to stay connected & informed.
SB 921 is about keeping choice and control in the hands of Missourians. It doesn't stop anyone from using digital IDs if they want to, but it makes sure no one is forced to go digital to access services or prove who they are. The bill protects privacy, gives people control over their personal information, and makes sure both government and businesses are held accountable. Simply put, its about making sure technology works for the people - not the other way around.
