The Missouri Department of Public Safety has released new best‑practices guidance for law enforcement agencies on the use of automated license plate readers, following Governor Mike Kehoe’s Executive Order 26‑18 issued September 16. The 10‑page document was distributed to all state and local agencies and outlines strict safeguards meant to protect privacy and constitutional rights while allowing ALPRs to continue serving as an effective investigative tool.
DPS Director Mark James said agencies across Missouri have already implemented strong guardrails, and he noted ALPRs have provided critical leads in cases ranging from child abductions to organized retail theft and homicides. Governor Kehoe emphasized the need for comprehensive legislation to ensure ALPRs are used only for legitimate law enforcement purposes and that violations carry serious consequences.
The guidance recommends limits on data searches, individual accountability for access, independent verification of alerts, 30‑day data retention, routine audits, and a prohibition on integrating facial recognition with ALPR systems. EO 26‑18 also directs agencies receiving state funding to adopt minimum standards until lawmakers enact permanent legislation. DPS will work with statewide law enforcement associations and prosecutors to develop that proposal ahead of the next legislative session.
