Bill > A08788

This bill establishes a task force to comprehensively study facial recognition technology, defined as a technology capable of identifying individuals by comparing facial features from digital images or videos against a database. The task force, comprising eight members appointed by state leaders (two each by the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker, plus one by the state's information technology director), will investigate potential privacy concerns, regulatory approaches taken by other jurisdictions, potential misuse or abuse of the technology, and best administrative methods for regulation. The chairperson, appointed by the governor, will lead the group, which will operate without compensation but with reimbursement for expenses. Within one year of the act's effective date, the task force must submit a detailed report to the governor and legislature outlining their findings. All state and local government agencies are required to provide necessary facilities, assistance, and data to support the task force's work. The bill aims to proactively understand and prepare for the implications of facial recognition technology, with a particular focus on protecting individual privacy and developing responsible regulatory frameworks.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8788