Maryland House Bill HB720

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Labor and Employment - Prohibition on Use of Facial Recognition Services by Employers - Application

Impact

If enacted, HB720 will alter existing labor and employment laws by establishing a legal framework in which consent is mandated prior to the use of facial recognition services in hiring processes. This measure not only clarifies the responsibilities of employers but also empowers applicants to have more control over how their biometric data is utilized. The legislation reflects a shift towards greater accountability in employment practices and may lead to broader discussions on data protection and privacy legislation in the state. Furthermore, the bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2023, thereby providing a timeline for employers to adapt their interview processes accordingly.

Summary

House Bill 720 seeks to regulate the use of facial recognition services by employers during the employment interview process. The bill specifically prohibits employers, including state and local governments, from using facial recognition technology to create facial templates of applicants without their explicit consent. This initiative addresses growing privacy concerns about the deployment of surveillance technologies in hiring practices, aiming to set clear boundaries around personal data usage in employment contexts. With the increasing adoption of facial recognition technology, the bill is positioned to protect job applicants' rights and maintain their privacy.

Contention

Despite its protective intentions, HB720 has sparked debates regarding the balance between technological innovation and individual privacy rights. Proponents argue that while employers need to harness new technologies for efficient hiring, the protection of applicants' personal data must be paramount. Critics, however, may express concerns about the potential hindrance to the adoption of advanced technologies in the workplace. The conversation around this bill highlights the complexities of integrating technological advancements with necessary precautions against privacy violations, signaling the ongoing struggle to find equitable solutions in labor regulations.