BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN)....Retailers and other commercial entities who have used biometric to collect customer data may have to adjust their operations in Erie County.
The Erie County Legislature, by a 7-3 vote, approved a measure that would ban the use of biometrics by any commercial entity.
At issue is how the data collected by biometric systems is used.
In some instances, companies have sold their collected biometric data while customers were unaware the information was being amassed and then sold to a third party.
"This is all about protection," said Legislator Lawrence Dupre, who sponsored the bill.
In a separate bill, that was not passed, Legislator Lindsay Lorigo wanted stores to post warning signs if they were using biometric data collection systems.
Biometric systems not only provide analytical data - such as customer's buying habits - but also uses facial recognition and fingerprints - among other forms of collected information.
Dupre said the ban still allows stores to operate security cameras.
But, some feel that biometrics is just "big brother-like."
"This scares the hell out of me," said Legislator John Mills.
Lorigo, and others, feel the ban has "too many unanswered questions."
"This is a huge step that Erie County is taking," Lorigo said. "There are still a lot of questions that need answers."
Lorigo, Mills and Frank Todaro - Republicans - voted against the biometrics ban.
Voting in favor were Dupre, Timothy Meyers, John Bargnesi, Taisha St. Jean Tard, John Gilmour, Michael Kooshoian and Jeanne Vinal.
Barring any lawsuits or litigation, the ban may take effect on Oct. 30.
Biometrics ban may be subject to lawsuit
Biometrics ban may be subject to lawsuit
