Title: The Rise of State Laws in Facial Recognition Technology Regulation In recent years, facial recognition technology has become increasingly prevalent in our daily lives, with tech companies deploying it across various platforms and devices. However, the lack of federal regulation on this issue has led to a surge in state-level laws aimed at controlling how biometric data is collected and used. As of now, 23 states have passed or expanded legislation restricting mass scraping of biometric information, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). Last month, Colorado enacted new biometric privacy rules requiring consent before facial or voice recognition technology could be employed and banning the sale of such data. Texas followed suit in June by passing an artificial intelligence law that prohibits collecting biometric information without permission. Oregon also approved data privacy regulations last year mandating consumer opt-in for companies to gather face, eye, and voice data. The Electronic Frontier Foundation’s (EFF) Privacy Litigation Director Adam Schwartz emphasizes the need for laws that change tech company behavior if they are to effectively protect users’ private information from being exploited by these technologies. This sentiment is echoed by University of Essex professor Pete Fussey, who notes how facial recognition has become ubiquitous in modern life due to its integration into various apps and devices. The growing number of state-level laws indicates a shift towards greater regulation at the local level as federal authorities remain silent on this issue. This trend could have significant implications for both tech companies and consumers alike, potentially leading to increased privacy protections while also posing challenges in terms of interstate consistency and enforcement. As we continue navigating an era defined by advanced AI systems, it is crucial that we engage with these developments critically and proactively. The rise of state laws regulating facial recognition technology highlights the importance of local governance in addressing emerging technological issues while also underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive federal legislation to ensure consistent protection across all jurisdictions.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/08/28/nx-s1-5519756/biometrics-facial-recognition-laws-privacy)
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