BILL NUMBER: S9508
SPONSOR: GOUNARDES
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring
certain security features and warning labels on baby monitors
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The bill would require that baby monitors are equipped with security
features to prevent unauthorized users from hearing or viewing activ-
ities, and to contain a warning label stating that the device connects
to the internet and that security features should be used.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1. Amends the general business law by adding a new section 399-
iii
Section 2. Sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The use of baby monitors, especially those with audio and video features
that can be accessed through an internet connection which can pose a
cybersecurity risk that can jeopardize the safety of both children and
their families. In particular, wife monitors are susceptible to hacking,
unauthorized surveillance, and unauthorized communication that put chil-
dren in danger. Knowing the potential security and safety risks incen-
tivizes further precautions to be taken when using baby monitors. This
bill will also help inform caretakers of some of the security features
that exist in baby monitors.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
None
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
TBD
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall have
become law.