H.R. 3693: To prohibit the Federal Government from establishing or maintaining a database that contains data collected through, or facilitates, the biometric identity verification of a citizen of the United States, and for other purposes.

This bill aims to prevent the Federal Government from creating or keeping a database that collects or helps in the verification of individuals' identities using biometric data. This data can include unique biological or behavioral traits such as fingerprints, iris patterns, and facial recognition features.

Key Provisions

• Prohibition on Databases: No federal agency is allowed to set up or run a database that uses biometric identity verification methods for U.S. citizens.
• Definition of Biometric Identity Verification: The bill defines biometric identity verification as the automatic identification of a person based on their unique physical or behavioral characteristics, which are used to extract identifiable features.

Impact on Federal Government Operations

With this bill in place, federal agencies would need to reconsider any plans or systems that involve the collection and use of biometric data for verifying identities. This could affect various areas, including law enforcement, national security, and border control where biometric data is commonly used to enhance security measures.

Regulatory Compliance

The bill would require compliance from federal agencies, which may need to implement alternative verification methods that do not rely on biometric data. This could lead to technological adjustments or shifts in policy to ensure alignment with the new regulations.

Public Concerns

By prohibiting the use of biometric databases, the bill may address public concerns regarding privacy, data security, and the potential for misuse of personal identification information. It may aim to safeguard citizens' privacy and reinforce individual rights against government surveillance.

Implementation Timeline

The bill is currently in the introductory stage and would need to go through various legislative processes before becoming law, including committee reviews and votes in both chambers of Congress.

Relevant Companies