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HB 1049

Prohibit Use of Personally Identifying Feature

2026 Regular Session

HB 1049 restricts use of biometric identifiers without explicit legal authorization, seeking to curb surveillance and protect personal privacy in Colorado.

House Committee on State, Civic, Military, & Veterans Affairs Postpone Indefinitely
#crimes #corrections #&enforcement
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Bill Summary · HB 1049

Legislative bill overview

HB 1049 would prohibit the use of personally identifying features—likely referring to biometric data such as facial recognition, fingerprints, iris scans, or similar identifiers—in contexts where current law does not explicitly permit such use. The bill appears designed to create constraints on how government or private entities can collect, use, or share biometric information without clear legal authorization.

Why is this important

Biometric technology has expanded rapidly in law enforcement, retail, and digital services, often with minimal public awareness or consent. This bill addresses growing concerns about privacy, surveillance capabilities, and the potential for misuse of sensitive biological data. The outcome affects how much control individuals have over their personal information in an increasingly digitized society.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition: Unclear what constitutes "personally identifying features" and which contexts are exempt, potentially creating enforcement ambiguity or unintended loopholes
  • Law enforcement exceptions: Whether police and security agencies would retain broad biometric authority or face new restrictions, balancing public safety against privacy rights
  • Business and technology impact: Could burden private sector adoption of convenient biometric systems (payments, authentication) or create competitive disadvantages for Colorado companies
  • Retroactive application: Whether existing biometric databases or ongoing programs would be grandfathered or subject to immediate compliance

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

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