S.1691 - Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 aims to limit the use of facial recognition technology in airports by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It mandates that passengers must provide affirmative express consent before their biometric information can be collected for identity verification, especially for those not enrolled in Trusted Traveler Programs. The bill also sets restrictions on data storage, sharing, and usage of biometric information, emphasizing data minimization and disposal of previously collected data.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to increased privacy for travelers by limiting the collection and use of their biometric data at airports. It could also result in longer security lines if a significant number of passengers opt out of facial recognition, requiring alternative identity verification methods.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced privacy for travelers through limitations on biometric data collection.
- Increased transparency regarding the use of facial recognition technology.
- Empowerment of passengers with the option to opt-in or opt-out of facial recognition.
- Protection against discriminatory treatment for those who choose not to use facial recognition.
- Mandatory reporting by the Comptroller General on the effectiveness and potential biases of facial recognition technology.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for longer security lines if many passengers opt out of facial recognition.
- Possible increased costs for implementing and maintaining alternative identity verification systems.
- Potential reduction in security effectiveness if facial recognition is significantly limited.
- Complexity in managing and processing passenger consent and opt-out options.
- Risk of inconsistent application of the law across different airports.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, by limiting the collection and use of biometric data without consent. It also touches on First Amendment rights by ensuring individuals are not penalized for exercising their right to privacy. The emphasis on due process and equal treatment aligns with the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).