CO SB071: Use of Surveillance Technology by Law Enforcement

In one paragraph

Colorado's SB26-071, the Surveillance Accountability and Freedom Ensured (SAFE) Act, would have set rules for law enforcement surveillance technology, including facial recognition systems, which could be used only after a warrant or in exigent circumstances with an imminent public-safety threat. The requirements would apply from July 1, 2027. The Senate Judiciary Committee postponed it indefinitely 6-1 on May 6, 2026; it is dead.

Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.

What it means for business

None: the bill did not pass. Had it passed, state and local law enforcement agencies using facial recognition and similar surveillance tools would have faced warrant, retention and audit rules.

Key provisions

1. 1Surveillance technology would include speed cameras, automated license plate readers, red-light and pole-mounted cameras, drones, and facial recognition software or systems
2. 2A law enforcement agency could use it only for lawful purposes directly related to public safety, such as traffic enforcement, crime prevention, or an active investigation
3. 3Facial recognition systems only after obtaining a warrant or in exigent circumstances with an imminent threat to public safety
4. 4Retention limits absent an active investigation: 30 days for traffic cameras and license plate readers, 90 days for pole-mounted cameras and drones, 7 days for facial recognition data; no sale of the data
5. 5Attorney General audit of each agency every 2 years and civil action to enforce; the bill would create civil penalties (amounts not shown in the captured text)
6. 6Status: introduced January 28, 2026; postponed indefinitely in Senate Judiciary May 6, 2026

Latest legislative action

May 6, 2026. Senate Committee on Judiciary Postpone Indefinitely

Sponsors

Roll call votes