Cybersecurity Policy Report, N.Y. Lawmakers Advance Bill to Require Disclosures of Biometric Tracking, (May 29, 2026)
The New York state Assembly Codes Committee voted 18-0 this week to pass a bill that would require New York retailers to post clear warnings and provide opt-out information if they tracked customers or collected biometric data.
AB 1558C would require retailers to inform customers in plain language if they are being tracked via cellphones, store-installed cameras, or other electronic devices and provide opt-out information where applicable. If biometric data is being collected, the signage would have to specify the types of data collected, how it is used, and offer opt-out details if available.
Violations of these provisions would result in escalating civil penalties, starting at $100 for a first offense and increasing to $500 for subsequent violations, with enforcement and penalty collection handled by local municipal authorities. The proposed law would exempt cameras and technologies used solely for store security purposes.
“Customers have a right to know when retailers are collecting their information and using it for their own purposes. This legislation would require retailers using such technology to post a clear warning at store entrances, explaining to customers what information is collected, how it is used and if it is possible to opt out,” said Assembly member Linda Rosenthal (D.), sponsor of the bill (A.B. 1558C, Reg Sess.).
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