Hiroshi Arimitsu of Yomiuri Shimbun reports: The government has announced plans for a comprehensive identification system to be implemented in 2015. The state has high hopes for the program, including improving social services and achieving equity in tax burdens, although privacy issues are a looming concern. A government panel headed by Prime Minister Naoto Kan…
Category: Laws
Missouri Gives Initial Approval to Measure to Drug Test Welfare Recipients
From the Missouri House of Representatives: The Missouri House of Representatives gave initial approval to legislation that would implement a system of drug testing for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families recipients suspected of using illegal controlled substances. The House perfected HB 73, sponsored by Rep. Ellen Brandom, R-Sikeston, by a vote of 121-37. HB 73…
Data retention push confirms DOJ hypocrisy
Chris Soghoian writes: As I described in a lengthy blog post a couple days ago, the US law enforcement community is yet again pushing for mandatory data retention laws, which would require internet service providers to keep records detailing the IP addresses issued to their customers. At the hearing last Tuesday, Jason Weinstein of the Department…
US Treasury fudges truth on financial privacy
Chris Soghoian writes: From the New York Times today: In May, the government will no longer pay someone eligible for benefits with a mailed check. Instead, the money will be electronically deposited directly into a bank account or made accessible by a debit card. And by March 2013, the 10 million people who receive checks, out…