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Bill

Bill

SF 2260

Biometric privacy standards and right of action establishment

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Lucero

Minnesota bill establishes biometric privacy protections, requires informed consent for collection, and grants individuals right to sue for violations.

Referred to Commerce and Consumer Protection
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 2260

Legislative bill overview

SF 2260 establishes comprehensive biometric privacy standards for Minnesota and creates a private right of action allowing individuals to sue for violations. The bill defines biometric data (fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scans, etc.), requires informed consent before collection, and sets standards for secure storage and deletion of this sensitive information.

Why is this important

Biometric data is uniquely permanent—unlike passwords, you cannot change your fingerprint if it's compromised—making its protection critical for identity theft and privacy concerns. This bill responds to growing corporate and government collection of biometric information with minimal oversight, giving Minnesotans legal recourse if their biometric data is mishandled.

Potential points of contention

  • Private right of action scope: The ability to sue directly may create litigation burden on businesses and law enforcement; opponents argue this could be costly and frivolous, while supporters say it's necessary enforcement given lack of regulatory agencies with teeth
  • Law enforcement exemptions: The bill likely contains carve-outs for police and security agencies; tensions exist between public safety needs and privacy protection, with disagreement over whether safeguards are adequate
  • Business compliance costs: Small businesses and retailers using facial recognition or fingerprint systems may face significant compliance expenses; large tech companies have resources smaller competitors lack

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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