New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00404

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 S00404, known as the 'reverse location and reverse keyword search prohibition act', seeks to amend the criminal procedure law in New York by prohibiting government entities from conducting searches of geolocation and keyword data without individual suspicion of wrongdoing. The bill specifically targets the practice of obtaining information about individuals based solely on their presence at a location or their search queries, thereby safeguarding the privacy rights of individuals who are not suspected of any criminal activity. It establishes clear definitions for reverse location and reverse keyword court orders and outlines the limitations on government entities regarding these searches.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the landscape of law enforcement's ability to access geolocation and keyword data in New York. It would prevent courts from issuing reverse location or keyword court orders, thereby limiting the scope of surveillance that can be conducted on individuals without specific suspicion. This change would reinforce privacy protections for individuals and could lead to a reduction in the use of such data in criminal investigations, potentially impacting law enforcement practices and the prosecution of crimes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S00404 appears to be cautiously supportive among privacy advocates, who view it as a necessary measure to protect civil liberties in the digital age. However, there may be concerns from law enforcement agencies about the potential limitations on their investigative capabilities. As there have been no recorded votes or extensive committee discussions available, the overall public and legislative sentiment remains to be fully gauged.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from law enforcement officials who argue that restricting access to geolocation and keyword data could hinder their ability to solve crimes and protect public safety. Conversely, civil rights advocates and privacy groups support the bill, emphasizing the importance of protecting individuals' rights to privacy and preventing unwarranted surveillance. The debate may center around the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights.

Companion Bills

NY A00407

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 A00407

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.