Relating To Violation Of Privacy.
The bill proposes to amend the Hawaii Revised Statutes to include a new chapter specifically addressing restraints on facial recognition technology use. Under this new regulation, it would be illegal for any government official to obtain, retain, share, access, or use facial recognition data unless specific conditions are met. These conditions include usage by trained law enforcement personnel for comparative purposes or during photo lineups, and by civil ID issuing agencies in compliance with federal law.
House Bill 1869 seeks to address the growing concerns around the use of facial recognition technology by government entities in Hawaii. The bill recognizes the significant implications this technology has for civil rights and liberties, including instances of false arrests and threats to free speech. By introducing limitations on the use of facial recognition systems, the legislation aims to protect both residents and visitors from potential abuses and violations of their privacy rights.
One of the notable points of contention within HB 1869 is the balance between security measures and individual privacy rights. While proponents argue that restrictions are necessary to prevent misuse of technology and welcome the bill as a step forward in safeguarding citizens' rights, some critics express concern regarding the potential limitations on law enforcement's ability to investigate and address public safety issues. This ongoing debate highlights the delicate interface between technological advancement and civil liberties.