The bill would bar federal agencies and officials from acquiring, possessing, accessing, or using biometric surveillance in the United States unless an act of Congress specifically authorizes it and sets safeguards. The bill also would make states and local governments ineligible for Byrne grants unless they follow a substantially similar restriction. It defines biometric surveillance to include facial, voice, and some other biometric recognition, but excludes fingerprint or palm-print identification that is not done from a distance.
People affected by a violation could sue the federal government for damages or other relief. State attorneys general and certain state officials could also bring enforcement actions. Information obtained in violation generally could not be used by the federal government in investigations or proceedings, except in proceedings about a violation of this section.
The bill does not estimate costs. It would bar federal law enforcement agencies from using federal funds to buy or use biometric surveillance systems and would condition Byrne grant eligibility on state and local restrictions.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.