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This bill bans the use of biometric data by state and local agencies in New York, with exceptions for collecting genetic or fingerprint samples at crime scenes and redacting recordings.
If you operate a state or local agency in New York, you must cease using biometric recognition technology immediately or face legal consequences.
State
New York
Bill Number
A10036
Status
Dead/Failed
Risk Level
High
Category
Comprehensive
Last Action
Aug 12, 2026
Last Verified
Aug 28, 2026
Data Updated
Aug 28, 2026
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
Law Enforcement
What This Means
The proposed legislation in New York aims to prohibit state and local agencies from using biometric data and recognition technology, with exceptions for crime scene investigations and privacy protection in recordings. It outlines specific definitions and mandates equity impact assessments to evaluate the implications of such technologies. This bill could significantly impact law enforcement and public agencies that rely on biometric data.
Key Provisions
Prohibits state and local agencies from using biometric recognition technology.
Mandates immediate cessation of current biometric data use unless required by law.
Requires annual reporting on biometric technology use and equity impact assessments.
Defines 'biometric data' and 'biometric recognition technology' comprehensively.
Allows limited use of biometric technology for employee authentication.
Exempts public health and education agencies under specific conditions.
Permits collection of genetic or fingerprint samples abandoned at crime scenes or from consenting victims.
Allows use of biometric technology for redacting recordings to protect privacy.
Latest Legislative Action
ENACTING CLAUSE STRICKEN
Bill Sponsors
Name
Role
Andrew Hevesi
Primary
Compliance Checklist
Cease all use of biometric recognition technology Who: State and local agencies in New York Deadline: Immediately Penalty: Legal consequences for non-compliance
Submit annual report detailing biometric technology use Who: Agencies using biometric technology Deadline: By May 1 each year Penalty: Potential legal repercussions for failure to report
Full Legal Analysis
The bill prohibits any state or local agency in New York from acquiring, accessing, or using biometric recognition technology or biometric data, unless explicitly required by other state laws. However, it permits the collection of genetic or fingerprint samples abandoned at a crime scene or from a consenting victim. Additionally, the bill allows the use of biometric technology for redacting recordings to protect privacy. Agencies currently using such technology must cease its use immediately. The bill also mandates that agencies submit annual reports detailing their use of biometric technologies, including the types of data collected and the measures taken to protect that data. Key definitions include 'biometric data' and 'biometric recognition technology,' which encompass various physiological and behavioral characteristics. The legislation emphasizes the need for equity impact assessments to address potential discrimination and inaccuracies in the use of biometric technologies, reflecting a growing trend in technology regulation that prioritizes civil rights and accountability.
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