Connecticut Senate Bill SB00487

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/18/14
• Refer: 3/18/14

Caption

An Act Concerning The Recording Of Telephonic Communications.

Impact

The legislation aims to enhance privacy protections for individuals engaging in telephonic communications by curtailing unauthorized recordings. By necessitating mutual consent, SB00487 strengthens the legal framework around recordings, which can previously be murky regarding matters of privacy. This change is particularly relevant in the context of today’s technology, where recording devices are ubiquitous and easily accessible, and it reflects a growing public demand for greater safeguards over personal communications.

Summary

SB00487, titled 'An Act Concerning The Recording Of Telephonic Communications,' seeks to amend existing statutory provisions regarding the recording of telephonic communications. The primary focus of this bill is to require that all parties involved in a telephonic communication must provide consent before any recording takes place. This consent can be documented either prior to the recording or as part of the recorded communication. Additionally, a verbal notification at the beginning of the recording or an automatic tone warning system is also acceptable under the proposed legislation.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding SB00487 stem from the balance between privacy rights and law enforcement activities. The bill outlines specific exceptions for law enforcement personnel, including federal, state, and local officials who may record telephonic communications in the course of their lawful duties. Critics may argue that these exceptions could lead to potential abuses of power or intrusions into privacy for individuals not engaged in unlawful activity, raising ethical questions about oversight and accountability in recordings made by government officials.