Rhode Island Senate Bill S2491

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 3/1/22

Caption

Video Lottery Games, Table Games And Sports Wagering--the Rhode Island Consumer Protection Gaming Act

Impact

If enacted, S2491 would significantly alter the landscape of gaming in Rhode Island by eliminating certain technologies used in gambling practices, thus aiming to prevent potential abuse of personal data and safeguarding the privacy of gaming consumers. The bill would also restrict the application of automated decision systems and algorithms that could influence gaming outcomes based on previous consumer behavior. This reflects a growing concern over the ethical implications associated with artificial intelligence and data usage in financial transactions, particularly in gambling.

Summary

Bill S2491, known as the Rhode Island Consumer Protection Gaming Act, intends to regulate the use of technology in state-sanctioned gaming operations, specifically regarding video lottery games and sports wagering. The key provision of the bill is the prohibition of facial recognition technology and biometric recognition programs at video lottery terminals operated by pari-mutuel licensees and in online gaming applications. This regulation is aimed at enhancing consumer protection by ensuring that gaming operations do not use invasive surveillance technologies that could track or monitor consumers without consent.

Contention

Debate surrounding S2491 centers on the balance between consumer protection and innovation in the gaming sector. Proponents advocate for the bill as a necessary step to safeguard consumer privacy by limiting the application of advanced technologies that could exploit vulnerable individuals. Conversely, detractors argue that such prohibitions could hinder technological advancements that enhance user experiences and engagement in modern gaming activities. The discussion is indicative of broader tensions between regulation and modernization in industries increasingly shaped by advanced technology.