Bill > HB500

This bill establishes the Biometric Information Privacy Act in Missouri, which creates comprehensive regulations for how private entities can collect, use, store, and share biometric identifiers and information. The act defines biometric identifiers as unique biological characteristics like retina or iris scans, fingerprints, voiceprints, and facial geometry, while explicitly excluding items like photographs, medical images, and writing samples. Private entities must develop a written policy for retaining and destroying biometric data, obtain explicit written consent before collecting such information, and inform individuals about the specific purpose and duration of data collection. The bill prohibits selling or trading biometric information and limits its disclosure, allowing sharing only with written consent, for completing financial transactions, or when required by law. Individuals who believe their biometric information has been mishandled can bring legal action, with potential damages ranging from $1,000 for negligent violations to $5,000 for intentional violations, and the court must award attorney's fees to prevailing plaintiffs. The act also prevents businesses from conditioning services on biometric data collection or charging different rates to those who exercise their privacy rights, while providing exceptions for certain entities like healthcare providers, financial institutions, and government agencies.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB500&year=2025&code=R