Bill > S00565

This bill authorizes the use of biometric identity verification devices as an additional method for checking the age of individuals purchasing alcoholic beverages or tobacco products in New York. A biometric identity verification device is defined as a commercial device that can instantly verify a person's identity and age by electronically scanning a biometric identifier like a fingerprint, iris image, or facial image. The device must cross-reference the biometric data against a previously verified and authenticated record stored in a secure, encrypted database. If the device indicates that the person is under 21 years old, the sale of alcohol or tobacco must be denied. The bill amends both the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law and the Public Health Law to allow licensees, their agents, or employees to use these devices in addition to traditional forms of age verification like driver's licenses. The bill provides legal protections for businesses using these devices, such as an affirmative defense in legal proceedings if they reasonably relied on the device's age verification. The new provisions will take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law, with immediate authorization for developing necessary regulations.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S565