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In Syracuse, Common Councilors Corey Williams and Jimmy Monto have proposed a ban on the use of facial recognition technology in businesses and public entities. The measure aims to safeguard civil rights and privacy by prohibiting the use of biometric surveillance, which includes facial geometry, fingerprints, and other physical characteristics. The proposed legislation follows a similar statewide bill introduced by state Sen. Rachel May.
Williams expressed concerns over the increasing use of such technology nationwide, emphasizing the need to protect individual privacy rights. The proposed ban would allow individuals targeted by illegal surveillance to file lawsuits, with penalties of $1,000 per violation.
The proposal comes after biometric data collection by the supermarket chain Wegmans raised privacy concerns earlier this year. While Syracuse officials are not aware of local businesses using the technology, they are proactively addressing potential privacy issues.
The Common Council plans to discuss the proposal in a committee meeting, with a potential vote scheduled for May 18. Councilor Rasheada Caldwell reportedly supports the initiative, and the Syracuse Police Department has confirmed that the ban would not impede their operations.
The measure is part of a broader effort by Williams and Monto to regulate surveillance technology, including a recent decision to replace license plate readers due to privacy concerns. The proposed legislation reflects Syracuse's commitment to transparency and civil liberties in the deployment of emerging technologies.