The proposed bill aims to enhance public safety by prohibiting government entities and officials in Minnesota from acquiring or using facial recognition technology. It introduces new legal language under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 626, specifically section 626.191, which defines key terms such as "face surveillance," "face surveillance system," "government entity," and "government official." The bill explicitly bans these entities from obtaining, retaining, accessing, or using any face surveillance systems or the information derived from them, including through agreements with private entities.
Additionally, the bill outlines enforcement mechanisms for violations, stating that any data collected unlawfully through face surveillance cannot be used as evidence in legal proceedings and must be deleted upon discovery. Individuals subjected to unauthorized face recognition can seek legal recourse, including injunctive relief and damages, with a minimum recovery of $1,000 or $100 per violation. The bill also allows for disciplinary actions against government officials who violate these provisions. The effective date for this legislation is set for August 1, 2025.