Missouri to demand proper ID for access to sensitive records

Missouri further enhanced statewide identity verification regulations by passing a law requiring individuals to present legal identification when requesting "sensitive" records, the Columbia Missourian reports. Under the new regulation, those desiring birth, death, marriage or divorce certificates must present a picture ID, such as a driver's license, passport or other state or federal documents. The new compliance request is to safeguard against potential identity theft that my stem from the acquisition of such records. Additionally, those seeking such records will have to provide verbal confirmation of their relationship to the person listed on the certificate. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services will oversee the new mandate, which becomes effective on March 1. "These new guidelines are being implemented to offer a higher degree of protection for documents that contain personal information," Margaret Donnelly, director of the Department of Health said in a news release. The new law comes shortly after the Missouri State Highway Patrol rolled out a new system that will allow state residents to acquire background checks on demand, according to KOMU-TV.