New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00407

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Prohibits the search, with or without a warrant, of geolocation and keyword data of a group of people who are under no individual suspicion of having committed a crime, but rather are defined by having been at a given location at a given time or searched particular words, phrases, character strings, or websites.

Summary

Bill A00407, known as the "reverse location and reverse keyword search prohibition act," seeks to amend the criminal procedure law in New York to prohibit government entities from conducting searches of geolocation and keyword data without individual suspicion of criminal activity. The bill specifically disallows the issuance of reverse location and reverse keyword court orders, as well as voluntary requests for such data. It aims to protect the privacy rights of individuals who may have been in a specific location or searched certain terms without any evidence of wrongdoing.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the legal landscape regarding privacy and surveillance in New York. It would prevent law enforcement from obtaining geolocation data or keyword search histories of individuals who are not under suspicion, thereby reinforcing privacy protections. The bill also establishes a private right of action for individuals whose data is improperly accessed, allowing them to seek damages and attorney's fees, which could lead to increased accountability for government entities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00407 appears to be largely supportive among privacy advocates who argue for stronger protections against unwarranted surveillance. However, there may be concerns from law enforcement and security agencies regarding the potential limitations on their ability to investigate crimes effectively. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge broader legislative sentiment at this time.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from law enforcement agencies that argue the bill could hinder their investigative capabilities. Supporters of the bill, including privacy advocates, contend that it is essential to protect citizens' rights and prevent overreach by government entities. The balance between privacy rights and public safety will likely be a key area of debate as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

NY S00404

Same As Prohibits the search, with or without a warrant, of geolocation and keyword data of a group of people who are under no individual suspicion of having committed a crime, but rather are defined by having been at a given location at a given time or searched particular words, phrases, character strings, or websites.

Previously Filed As

NY S00217

Prohibits the search, with or without a warrant, of geolocation and keyword data of a group of people who are under no individual suspicion of having committed a crime, but rather are defined by having been at a given location at a given time or searched particular words, phrases, character strings, or websites.

NY A03306

Prohibits the search, with or without a warrant, of geolocation and keyword data of a group of people who are under no individual suspicion of having committed a crime, but rather are defined by having been at a given location at a given time or searched particular words, phrases, character strings, or websites.

NY S00404

Prohibits the search, with or without a warrant, of geolocation and keyword data of a group of people who are under no individual suspicion of having committed a crime, but rather are defined by having been at a given location at a given time or searched particular words, phrases, character strings, or websites.

NY HB145

An Act To Amend Title 11 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Reverse Location And Reverse Keyword Searches And Court Orders.

NY HB4129

Relating to the prohibition of warrantless searches and seizures.

NY HB2386

Relating to the prohibition of warrantless searches and seizures.

NY SF956

Searches and seizures without a warrant or court order by conservation officers prohibition and requiring receipts to be provided for persons from whom property is seized

NY HF1594

Conservation officers prohibited from conducting searches or seizures without a warrant or court order, and receipts to be provided to persons from whom property is seized required.

NY HB1913

Criminal procedure; prohibiting reverse-location or reverse-keyword court orders; codification; effective date.

NY HB1913

Criminal procedure; prohibiting reverse-location or reverse-keyword court orders; codification; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.