H.R.3782 - To prohibit the Federal Government from using facial recognition technology as a means of identity verification, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3782 aims to prohibit the Federal Government from using facial recognition technology for identity verification purposes. The bill defines facial recognition technology as a security system that automatically identifies individuals from digital images or video. It was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Ogles and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would restrict federal agencies from employing facial recognition for verifying identities. This could impact various government functions, potentially requiring alternative methods for identification. The change would primarily affect areas where facial recognition is currently used for security or access control.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Privacy: Protects individuals from potential government overreach and misuse of personal data.
- Reduced Surveillance: Limits the scope of government surveillance, safeguarding civil liberties.
- Mitigation of Bias: Addresses concerns about algorithmic bias in facial recognition technology, which can disproportionately affect certain demographic groups.
- Increased Transparency: Promotes transparency in government operations by restricting the use of opaque surveillance technologies.
- Protection Against Misidentification: Reduces the risk of errors and misidentification associated with facial recognition systems.
Potential Disadvantages
- Hindered Law Enforcement: May impede law enforcement efforts in identifying criminals and preventing crime.
- Compromised Security: Could weaken security measures at federal facilities and border control points.
- Reduced Efficiency: May lead to increased costs and delays in government services that currently rely on facial recognition.
- Limited Innovation: Could discourage the development and deployment of advanced security technologies.
- National Security Risks: Could potentially weaken national security by limiting the government's ability to identify and track potential threats.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with constitutional principles related to privacy and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, potentially implicating the Fourth Amendment. It also touches upon First Amendment concerns regarding freedom of assembly and expression, as surveillance can chill these rights. The bill's focus on limiting government power resonates with the overall structure of the Constitution, which seeks to balance governmental authority with individual liberties.
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).