New smart devices are being invented more rapidly than ever. These small devices have the potential to change the way we work and communicate with each other. We should encourage technological innovation where we can, but we should also make sure new technology is not abused by bad actors. Smart glasses – wearable devices that can communicate, record, and have other uses – are one such technology that requires us to examine and address potential privacy and security concerns.
 
I plan to introduce legislation that would require all smart glasses manufactured, sold, and used in Pennsylvania to have a visual indicator that shows when the device is recording video or audio. My legislation would be put under our current wiretapping laws and have similar requirements in line with our current rules about recording other people. Additionally, retailers would be required to clearly inform users of Pennsylvania’s recording laws, so that everyone who purchases smart glasses is aware of their responsibilities when using them. The bill would also seek to prevent a smart glasses user from disabling a visual indicator to hide the fact that the device is recording. 
 
This bill does not seek to create overly burdensome restrictions that make using smart glasses a liability risk. Instead, it expands what we already have on the books to make sure new technology is not a tool to circumvent our privacy laws.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation so that we can enact common sense privacy guidelines for smart glasses.