Column: Privacy and REAL ID in Missouri

In 2009 the Missouri General Assembly correctly represented the sentiment of the people when they took a principled stand to protect our personal information — that’s when they passed the law that forbids the state from participating in the federal REAL ID program.

They knew that the REAL ID card would ultimately become a Big Brother hybrid that 20th century despots could only dream of and George Orwell couldn’t even conceive of. Last week’s news about the data breach at the CIA illustrates their wisdom, especially in light of the revelation about all the ways the CIA is spying on us.

Reps and senators in 2009 knew that the collection of biometric data, like iris scans, and RFID chips will eventually be part of the cards.

Now some Missouri lawmakers want to modify the 2009 law under the guise of “choice.” After all, who can complain about letting each citizen decide whether he wants a REAL ID card or the old style driver’s license?

But the “choice” is actually a false choice.

You would have to be a fool to think that what starts out as optional participation in REAL ID will not ultimately be mandatory for all, and once we capitulate there will be no turning back.

 

Read More: Column: Privacy and REAL ID in Missouri (3/15/17) | Southeast Missourian newspaper, Cape Girardeau, MO