Even DPS Was Confused By Those Barcodes

The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety apparently has been among those confused by the intent of those barcodes on the new license plates.

The codes have been the source of considerable speculation in recent days as The McCarville Report Online has shed light on Governor Henry's plan to install 220 highway "spy" cameras to gather information on possible insurance scofflaws, those who do not carry the required vehicle insurance.

All of those involved now say the barcodes are simply administrative devices used by the Oklahoma Tax Commission for "inventory control."

But on October 16, 2009, DPS issued a "Request For Information" by possible vendors to administer the state's new license plate scanning system and the RFI included this section on system requirements:
• capture vehicle license plate data from stationary locations along selected highways using:
• cameras
• barcode scanners. Oklahoma's new license plates include a barcode. All license plates will be replaced with the new license plate by December 31, 2009. It should be noted that some license plate mounts or surrounds obscure, partially or in whole, the barcode.
• other technology proposed by the responder.

Hat Tip to Kaye Beach at www.axiomamuse.wordpress.com.

Share |