Big Changes for Media Regarding Crash Reports

 The following information was released to the media by the Missouri Broadcasters Association 

MSHP Online Crash Reports On November 1, the Missouri State Highway Patrol removed names from its online preliminary traffic crash reports. The Patrol claims scammers were using information from the online reports to try to obtain money from those who were involved in crashes. I have heard from several of you, and I understand the disruption this is causing to newsgathering. The MBA is aggressively working with the MSHP to try to get this information back in your hands.

The MBA, along with a group of news directors from member radio and TV stations, met last week with the MSHP superintendent, the Department of Public Safety deputy director and top communications officials. They said they believe there have been about 12 instances of scams relating to the online crash reports. They said the Patrol adopted the new policy because it was required by the Drivers Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), a law that was passed almost 30 years ago.   While we understand the Patrol’s concern about these incidents, we believe that the Patrol’s new policy, adopted without notice or an opportunity for the public to comment, is inconsistent with federal and state law, judicial interpretations of the DPPA and practice.   While the MBA has proposed compromises to address the need for public information while also minimizing harm, the Patrol has not shown an interest in adjusting its new policy. MBA attorneys are currently reviewing the issue and we are considering our next step. We will continue working to address this issue.