New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S05609

Introduced
2/25/25  
Refer
2/25/25  
Report Pass
5/5/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

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.

Summary

Bill S05609 aims to prohibit the use of biometric surveillance technology by law enforcement in New York State. The legislation highlights concerns regarding the unregulated use of such technology, which has been shown to have varying accuracy based on demographic factors and poses risks to civil liberties and privacy. The bill establishes a task force to evaluate the implications of biometric surveillance and to propose a regulatory framework for its potential future use by law enforcement. This task force is tasked with examining existing technologies, their effectiveness, and the potential harms they may pose to various demographic groups.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the landscape of law enforcement practices in New York by banning the acquisition and use of biometric surveillance systems. It would also mandate the establishment of a task force to study the technology's implications and to develop guidelines for any future use. This could lead to increased scrutiny of law enforcement practices and a potential shift towards more privacy-conscious policies regarding surveillance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S05609 appears to be cautiously supportive, as evidenced by the votes in the Senate Internet and Technology Committee, which showed a majority in favor. However, there are concerns voiced by some members regarding the implications of completely banning biometric surveillance technology, particularly in terms of law enforcement's ability to effectively carry out their duties.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Some lawmakers express concern that prohibiting biometric surveillance may hinder law enforcement's ability to solve crimes, while others argue that the technology's inaccuracies and potential for misuse outweigh its benefits. The differing perspectives reflect a broader national debate on privacy rights versus security measures.

Companion Bills

NY A01045

Same As 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.

Previously Filed As

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 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 SB071

Use of Surveillance Technology by Law Enforcement

NY A06211

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.