New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06211

Introduced
2/27/25  
Refer
2/27/25  

Caption

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information in places of public accommodation; prohibits entering into any agreement that authorizes any third party to use any biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information; provides penalties for violations.

Summary

Bill A06211 seeks to amend the civil rights law in New York by prohibiting the use of biometric surveillance systems and the collection of biometric information in places of public accommodation. The bill defines biometric information broadly to include various physiological and behavioral characteristics that can identify individuals, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and voice patterns. It establishes that public accommodation providers cannot use biometric surveillance systems or enter agreements allowing third-party use of such systems without obtaining informed consent from individuals.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly impact how businesses and public accommodations handle biometric data, requiring them to obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting or using their biometric information. It will also impose penalties for violations, including potential damages and attorney fees for prevailing plaintiffs. This legislation aims to enhance privacy protections for individuals in public spaces and may lead to a reevaluation of current surveillance practices in New York.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A06211 appears to be cautiously supportive among privacy advocates who view it as a necessary step towards protecting individual rights in the face of increasing surveillance technology. However, there may be concerns from businesses regarding the implications for security measures and customer service, which could lead to opposition from certain industry groups.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for protecting civil liberties, while opponents may contend that it could hinder legitimate security practices and technological advancements. The business community may express concerns about the operational challenges and costs associated with compliance.

Companion Bills

NY S08004

Same As Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information in places of public accommodation; prohibits entering into any agreement that authorizes any third party to use any biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information; provides penalties for violations.

Previously Filed As

NY S08004

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information in places of public accommodation; prohibits entering into any agreement that authorizes any third party to use any biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information; provides penalties for violations.

NY HB5521

BIOMETRIC SURVEILLANCE ACT

NY A3929

Prohibits use of biometric surveillance system by business entity under certain circumstances.

NY S1464

Prohibits use of biometric surveillance system by business entity under certain circumstances.

NY S01609

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance technology by law enforcement; establishes the biometric surveillance regulation task force; provides for the expiration and repeal of certain provisions.

NY A01891

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance technology by law enforcement; establishes the biometric surveillance regulation task force; provides for the expiration and repeal of certain provisions.

NY S01033

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance technology by law enforcement; establishes the biometric surveillance regulation task force; provides for the expiration and repeal of certain provisions.

NY A01045

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance technology by law enforcement; establishes the biometric surveillance regulation task force; provides for the expiration and repeal of certain provisions.

NY S05609

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance technology by law enforcement; establishes the biometric surveillance regulation task force; provides for the expiration and repeal of certain provisions.

NY HB4423

Relating to the collection, possession, or use of biometric identifiers and biometric information.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.