Bill > A01447

This bill aims to regulate the use of biometric identifying technology, such as facial recognition, in law enforcement procedures. It defines key terms like "biometric identifying technology" (computer software that analyzes biometric information to identify individuals) and "biometric information" (measurable physical or behavioral characteristics like facial features, fingerprints, eye characteristics, and voice patterns). The legislation prohibits law enforcement agencies from using biometric technology as the sole basis for establishing probable cause to arrest or detain an individual. By January 1, 2027, all municipal police departments, sheriff's offices, and state police must adopt written policies explicitly preventing the stopping, detention, or searching of individuals based solely on biometric identifying technology. If a law enforcement agency fails to comply with these requirements, the division of criminal justice services can impose penalties by withholding state funds. The bill represents an effort to prevent potential misuse of emerging technological identification methods and protect individuals from unwarranted law enforcement actions based exclusively on biometric data.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1447