Vermont DMV discusses third-party access to driver records and data privacy concerns
May 16, 2025 | Environment & Energy, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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In a recent joint hearing held by the Vermont House Energy and Digital Infrastructure and Senate Institutions, lawmakers discussed the accessibility and management of public records related to driver data maintained by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The meeting, which took place on May 15, 2025, highlighted concerns about third-party access to this data and the potential for misuse.
A key point of discussion was the nature of the data held by the DMV, which is classified as public record under both state and federal law. This means that while the information is accessible to the public, there are ongoing concerns about how it is shared and used by third parties, particularly insurance companies. The DMV utilizes a web hosting service, Tyler Tech, to manage and distribute this data, which raises questions about the handling fees and the extent of control the DMV has over the information once it is released.
Lawmakers expressed apprehension that authorized organizations, such as insurance brokers, could sell this data to other entities, potentially leading to privacy violations. There was a consensus among committee members that stronger regulations may be necessary to prevent the resale of this information. However, any changes would require legal verification and involvement from the Attorney General's office to ensure compliance with existing laws.
The discussion also touched on the specific fields of information that are included in the public records, such as names, addresses, and driving history. While individuals can request this information, the process can be cumbersome, and there are concerns that bulk requests could make it easier for entities to compile comprehensive lists of data.
As Vermont continues to navigate the complexities of data privacy and public access, the outcomes of this hearing may lead to significant changes in how driver data is managed and protected. Lawmakers are expected to explore potential legislative actions to tighten regulations surrounding the use of public records, ensuring that residents' information remains secure while still being accessible as required by law.
A key point of discussion was the nature of the data held by the DMV, which is classified as public record under both state and federal law. This means that while the information is accessible to the public, there are ongoing concerns about how it is shared and used by third parties, particularly insurance companies. The DMV utilizes a web hosting service, Tyler Tech, to manage and distribute this data, which raises questions about the handling fees and the extent of control the DMV has over the information once it is released.
Lawmakers expressed apprehension that authorized organizations, such as insurance brokers, could sell this data to other entities, potentially leading to privacy violations. There was a consensus among committee members that stronger regulations may be necessary to prevent the resale of this information. However, any changes would require legal verification and involvement from the Attorney General's office to ensure compliance with existing laws.
The discussion also touched on the specific fields of information that are included in the public records, such as names, addresses, and driving history. While individuals can request this information, the process can be cumbersome, and there are concerns that bulk requests could make it easier for entities to compile comprehensive lists of data.
As Vermont continues to navigate the complexities of data privacy and public access, the outcomes of this hearing may lead to significant changes in how driver data is managed and protected. Lawmakers are expected to explore potential legislative actions to tighten regulations surrounding the use of public records, ensuring that residents' information remains secure while still being accessible as required by law.
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