Vermont Officials Discuss Ownership and Privacy of DMV and Criminal Records Data
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 critical issues surrounding the management and privacy of public records, particularly focusing on driver and criminal history records. The meeting, which took place on May 15, 2025, highlighted concerns about the implications of federal laws on Vermonters' privacy and the handling of sensitive information.
One of the key topics was the cost associated with maintaining the state's web portal, which is managed by Tyler Technologies. The state currently pays approximately $3.6 million annually for hosting and managing the web interface, which includes compliance with updated Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards. These standards require regular audits to ensure the security of financial transactions, a responsibility that Tyler Technologies handles on behalf of the state.
Lawmakers expressed concerns about the lack of privacy protections for Vermonters when they provide personal information, such as names and addresses, to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Under current federal law, this information is considered public and can be accessed without restrictions, raising fears about potential misuse or resale of personal data. Legislators noted that while for-profit companies can keep their information confidential, Vermonters do not have the same protections, which they believe should be addressed through legislative action.
The discussion also touched on the process of obtaining criminal history records, which are required for various roles, including school volunteers and bus drivers. These records are categorized as public safety records and are subject to the same public records laws. Lawmakers emphasized the need for clarity on how this information is shared and whether there are adequate safeguards to prevent unauthorized resale.
As the meeting concluded, legislators recognized the importance of reviewing existing public records laws to enhance protections for Vermonters. They acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach to ensure that sensitive information is handled responsibly and that residents' privacy is prioritized. The outcomes of this hearing may lead to significant changes in how Vermont manages public records and protects its citizens' personal information in the future.
One of the key topics was the cost associated with maintaining the state's web portal, which is managed by Tyler Technologies. The state currently pays approximately $3.6 million annually for hosting and managing the web interface, which includes compliance with updated Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards. These standards require regular audits to ensure the security of financial transactions, a responsibility that Tyler Technologies handles on behalf of the state.
Lawmakers expressed concerns about the lack of privacy protections for Vermonters when they provide personal information, such as names and addresses, to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Under current federal law, this information is considered public and can be accessed without restrictions, raising fears about potential misuse or resale of personal data. Legislators noted that while for-profit companies can keep their information confidential, Vermonters do not have the same protections, which they believe should be addressed through legislative action.
The discussion also touched on the process of obtaining criminal history records, which are required for various roles, including school volunteers and bus drivers. These records are categorized as public safety records and are subject to the same public records laws. Lawmakers emphasized the need for clarity on how this information is shared and whether there are adequate safeguards to prevent unauthorized resale.
As the meeting concluded, legislators recognized the importance of reviewing existing public records laws to enhance protections for Vermonters. They acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach to ensure that sensitive information is handled responsibly and that residents' privacy is prioritized. The outcomes of this hearing may lead to significant changes in how Vermont manages public records and protects its citizens' personal information in the future.
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