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Bill

Bill

A 6211

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information in places of public accommodation

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Zohran Mamdani and 4 co-sponsors

Bill A 6211 prohibits biometric surveillance in public spaces, enhancing privacy for individuals and requiring businesses to stop using such technologies.

REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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Bill Summary · A 6211

Summary of Bill A 6211

Bill Number: A 6211
Title: Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information in places of public accommodation
Status: Referred to Governmental Operations
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 6211 aims to protect the privacy rights of individuals by prohibiting the use of biometric surveillance systems and the collection of biometric surveillance information in public accommodations. The intent of the bill is to address growing concerns over privacy, data security, and the potential misuse of biometric data, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, in spaces where individuals expect a reasonable level of privacy.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition of Biometric Surveillance: The bill explicitly prohibits the implementation and use of biometric surveillance systems in places of public accommodation. This includes businesses and facilities that are open to the public, such as hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and public transportation hubs.

  • Definition of Biometric Information: The bill defines biometric information to include data derived from physical characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial recognition data, iris scans, and voiceprints.

  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill outlines potential penalties for entities that violate the prohibition, although specific enforcement measures and penalties are not detailed in the current version.

Affected Parties

  • Businesses and Public Accommodations: Entities that operate in public spaces will be directly impacted by this legislation, as they will need to cease any current use of biometric surveillance systems and refrain from implementing such technologies in the future.

  • Consumers and the General Public: Individuals frequenting public accommodations will benefit from enhanced privacy protections, reducing the risk of unauthorized surveillance and data collection.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Journey: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has been referred to the Governmental Operations committee for further consideration. The next steps will involve discussions, potential amendments, and voting within the committee.

  • Related Legislation: Bill A 6211 is related to prior-session Bill A 7625 and has a companion bill, S 8004, which may address similar issues or provide additional context for the legislative intent.

Conclusion

Bill A 6211 represents a significant step towards regulating biometric surveillance in public spaces, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of privacy rights in an increasingly digital world. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be crucial to monitor discussions and potential amendments that may shape its final form and impact.

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

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