Utah Ends Involvement in Federal Database (MATRIX)

[UpInArms]

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/breaking_news/8287251.htm

SALT LAKE CITY - Utah officially ended its involvement Friday in a federally funded crime and terrorism database project, joining a growing list of states that are withdrawing from the program.

As many as 13 states had planned to participate in the pilot project, but Utah's decision and similar reluctance by other states leaves just five that have pledged to join Matrix - short for Multistate Anti-Terrorism Information Exchange.

"I understand law enforcement officials need to share information regarding criminal activity, but there are privacy and funding concerns I had to consider," Gov. Olene Walker said Friday.

The Justice Department program combines state records with 20 billion pieces of data held by Seisint, a private company in Boca Raton, Fla. The information available within seconds - everything from names of business associates to bankruptcy filings - has drawn concern from privacy activists across the country.

...more...

[No Mandate Here.]

1. I sent letters and emails...

... to my PA State Senator and Representative about Matrix, and received a very interesting reply. The Senator said that he wasn't at all aware of the program, and had looked into it. He found the following:

"It is our understanding that Matrix is a pilot program run by a private company and that Pennsylvania voluntarily entered the program. This decision was made by the Administration through the PA State Police, the Legislature did not vote on this issue. However, we will monitor the program to make sure the rights of Pennsylvania citizens are protected."

I wonder how much this company donates to Bush. I wonder how many other invasion of privacy programs are already in place thanks to Big Brother Ashcroft?

[Benhurst]

2. It's obvious why Florida is still in the program; but

why Connecticut, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania? DUers who live in those states should start pressuring their state representatives.

In any event, congratulations to Utah for getting out. :toast:

[AlecBGreen]

3. yeah, cheers for that

:toast: