Connecticut House Bill HB05333

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/19
• Refer: 1/15/19

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Retailers From Using Facial Recognition Software For Marketing Purposes.

Impact

The introduction of this bill could significantly alter state laws concerning data privacy and consumer rights. If enacted, it would modify existing statutes to explicitly ban the application of facial recognition technology in marketing contexts by retailers. This aligns with a broader trend across various states and municipalities advocating for stronger data protection measures as society grapples with the implications of data collection and surveillance.

Summary

House Bill 05333 aims to safeguard the privacy of customers in retail environments by prohibiting the use of facial recognition software for marketing purposes. This legislative move responds to growing concerns over privacy violations and the ethical implications of using advanced technologies to track consumer behavior. By restricting facial recognition technologies in retail settings, the bill seeks to protect individuals from being surveilled without their consent and from potential misuse of their biometric data.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face opposition from certain industry stakeholders and technology advocates who argue that facial recognition can enhance customer service and streamline marketing strategies. Proponents of the bill, however, highlight that the risks associated with facial recognition—such as potential discrimination and erosion of consumer trust—far outweigh any perceived benefits. This divergence between consumer privacy rights and business interests underlines a significant point of contention in discussions surrounding the bill, as legislators weigh the implications for both consumers and retailers.