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AI Summary
This bill mandates private entities to establish policies for biometric data retention and destruction, allowing individuals to sue for violations.
Business Impact
If you collect biometric data in Maryland, you must create a public retention policy and guidelines for data destruction or face legal action.
What do these statuses mean? ▼
Introduced
— Filed in the legislature; not yet heard in committee
In Committee
— Assigned to and being reviewed by a legislative committee
Passed
— Approved by one or both chambers; awaiting further action
Signed / Enacted
— Signed into law by the governor; may or may not be in effect yet
Dead / Vetoed
— Vetoed, failed to pass, or session expired without action
Unknown
— Status data not yet available or awaiting classification
Affected Industries
Topics How we classify →
What This Means
Maryland's HB259 aims to enhance consumer protection by regulating how private entities handle biometric data. It requires these entities to develop public policies regarding data retention and destruction, empowering individuals to take legal action against violations. This legislation reflects growing concerns over privacy and the ethical use of biometric information.
Key Provisions
- Private entities must develop a written policy for biometric data retention and destruction.
- Individuals can bring civil actions for violations of the Act.
- Violations are considered unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices.
Latest Legislative Action
Approved by the Governor - Chapter 131
Bill Sponsors
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Chair, Economic Matters Committee | Primary |
Amendments (4)
Favorable with Amendments 453726/1 Adopted
Adopted
2022-03-17
Floor Amendment 143528/1 (Delegate Grammer) Adopted
Adopted
2022-03-18
Floor Amendment 393823/1 (Delegate Adams) Rejected (33-94)
Pending
2022-03-18
Floor Amendment 623528/1 (Delegate Adams) Rejected (35-93)
Pending
2022-03-18
Compliance Checklist
Develop a written policy for biometric data retention and destruction
Who: Private entities collecting biometric data
Penalty: Legal action by individuals for violations
Who: Private entities collecting biometric data
Penalty: Legal action by individuals for violations
Make the retention and destruction policy publicly available
Who: Private entities collecting biometric data
Penalty: Legal action by individuals for violations
Who: Private entities collecting biometric data
Penalty: Legal action by individuals for violations
Related & Companion Bills
Full Legal Analysis
HB259 establishes a framework for the regulation of biometric data by private entities in Maryland. It requires these entities to develop and publicly disclose a written policy that outlines a retention schedule for biometric data and guidelines for its permanent destruction. Individuals who believe their biometric data rights have been violated under this Act are granted the authority to initiate civil actions against the offending entities. Furthermore, violations of this Act are classified as unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices, which could lead to additional legal consequences. This bill aligns with similar regulations in states like Illinois and California, which also focus on biometric data privacy and consumer protection.
Official Source
Official Bill Text
View HB259 on official legislature website →
Related Topics
Affected Industries
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