New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01558

Introduced
1/10/25  
Refer
1/10/25  
Refer
1/7/26  
Report Pass
5/5/26  

Caption

Requires retailers to post warning signs of the tracking and collecting of customers biometric data through electronic devices; provides for civil penalties.

Impact

If enacted, A01558 would significantly impact retail operations across New York state. Retailers that engage in tracking customers through devices, such as cell phones or cameras, will need to adhere to new posting requirements. This change is aimed at fostering transparency and empowering consumers with information about how their data is being used. Moreover, the bill establishes civil penalties for violations, which may further incentivize compliance among retailers. This could lead to a broader shift in how businesses manage consumer data and their privacy policies.

Summary

Bill A01558, introduced by Assembly Member Rosenthal, seeks to amend the General Business Law by requiring retailers to inform customers about the tracking and collection of biometric data through electronic devices. The bill mandates that retailers post conspicuous warning signs at each entrance, notifying customers of such practices. Additionally, these signs must provide information regarding how customers can opt out of tracking and data collection, if applicable. The intent of this legislation is to enhance consumer awareness and protect privacy in an era where biometric tracking is becoming more prevalent.

Contention

The bill has generated discussion around the balance between business operations and consumer privacy rights. Proponents argue that clear labeling and consumer opt-out options are necessary to protect individuals from unauthorized tracking and data misuse. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the burden such requirements could impose on retailers, especially small businesses that may lack the resources to implement these changes. An ongoing debate involves the potential cost versus the necessity of consumer protection in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Companion Bills

NY S02539

Same As Requires retailers to post warning signs of the tracking and collecting of customers biometric data through electronic devices; provides for civil penalties.

Previously Filed As

NY S02539

Requires retailers to post warning signs of the tracking and collecting of customers biometric data through electronic devices; provides for civil penalties.

NY HF4005

Biometric data; consent for collection required, sale prohibited, deletion required, and civil penalties imposed.

NY SSB3085

A bill for an act relating to private entity requirements concerning biometric data, and providing civil penalties.

NY S08004

Prohibits the use of biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information in places of public accommodation; prohibits entering into any agreement that authorizes any third party to use any biometric surveillance system or biometric surveillance information; provides penalties for violations.

NY A09396

Prohibits the use of electronic shelving labels, digital shelf display technology in food retail establishments and drug retail establishments; provides injunctive relief and civil penalties.

NY S08616

Prohibits the use of electronic shelving labels, digital shelf display technology, and surveillance pricing in food retail establishments and drug retail establishments; provides injunctive relief and civil penalties.

NY SF4351

Consent requirement for certain biometric data collection

NY A08007

Requires food service establishments to permit the use of reusable beverage and food containers provided by customers when requesting a beverage refill or requesting leftovers from a partially consumed meal to be packaged and post signs to inform customers that they are permitted to do so.

NY S07408

Requires food service establishments to permit the use of reusable beverage and food containers provided by customers when requesting a beverage refill or requesting leftovers from a partially consumed meal to be packaged and post signs to inform customers that they are permitted to do so.

NY A08197

Requires signage warning about EBT/SNAP skimming at all retail food stores; mandates chip-enabled point-of-sale systems for SNAP transactions.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.