Porter calls for study of BMV data sales to protect Hoosiers’ privacy

Yesterday, May 5, State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) signed onto a letter calling for the legislature to study data sales by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Each year, the BMV generates millions in revenue by selling Hoosiers’ personal information–individuals' date of birth, name, address, license plate number and more. Porter has authored legislation for the past two years that allows Hoosiers to opt out of data sales and protects seniors and teens. 

“Not only is the BMV legally selling people’s information, but Hoosiers don’t get a say in the matter. I’ve authored legislation for the past two years that allows individuals to opt out of data sales. But the bill has never received a hearing. We’re chipping away at the issue, and we’ve had some successes. Derived from my initial legislation, the BMV must make annual reports on the fees it charges and the revenue generated from data sales. We still need to tackle the issue as a whole. 

“Nobody should have their personal information sold without their consent. Most Hoosiers don’t even know their data is being sold to third parties. They sell it to towing companies, insurance agencies, debt collectors, auto dealers and more. We have no clue what these third parties do with the information after purchasing it. 

“Hoosiers value personal privacy. Now is the time to study this topic, so we can act next year.”