Bill > SB5937

This bill, concerning the use of smart access systems in residential properties governed by the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, introduces new regulations and definitions related to these systems. It mandates that landlords must offer tenants alternative key options if they request them, such as key fobs, key cards, physical keys, or keypad entry, that do not rely on biometric data (like fingerprints or facial scans) or mobile phone applications. The bill also requires landlords to provide tenants with a written privacy policy, either from the system developer or a landlord-created one, detailing what data is collected, how it's protected, its retention schedule, and protocols for data breaches. Furthermore, it limits the collection of "authentication data" (information used to verify identity for entry) and "reference data" (information against which authentication data is checked) to the minimum necessary for granting access, specifying what types of data, such as user names, dwelling unit access, and time/method of access for security, can be collected. The bill defines "smart access system" as any electronic or computerized technology used to grant entry to buildings, dwelling units, or common areas, excluding simple keypads.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5937&Year=2025&Initiative=false