ACLU Challenges Rhode Island Uninsured Drivers Database

The American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island has filed a court challenge to the state Division of Motor Vehicles’ implementation of a database designed to identify uninsured drivers.

The ACLU says the database established by a 2013 state law has no regulations to prevent the improper disclosure of drivers’ personal information, avoid mistaken registration revocations, or to otherwise ensure that the program is properly administered by the private company contracted to run the program.

The lawsuit filed Tuesday notes that while insurance companies and the DMV are already sending personal information about drivers to the third-party contractor, the DMV has yet to draft, publicly share, or hold a public hearing to discuss regulations establishing privacy safeguards.

The ACLU will seek a temporary restraining order against implementation of the program.