Senators Express Concerns over Facial Recognition System Implementation at the Mall of America

Senator Eric Lucero (R-Saint Michael) and Senator Omar Fateh (DFL-Minneapolis) have expressed their concerns over the recent implementation of a facial recognition system at the Mall of America. They argue that non-consensual capturing, storing, mining, and sharing of biometric facial recognition data is a violation of privacy and poses a threat to millions of Minnesotans and visitors to the state.

Senator Fateh raised specific concerns about the potential for misidentification of people of color by facial recognition technology, which has been reported by the ACLU. He also questioned the storage, distribution, and protection of data collected by the system, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability from the Mall of America.

Senator Lucero emphasized the importance of input from citizens, civil liberty advocates, data practices advocates, and state and local government officials before implementing any facial recognition technology. He warned that failure to address these concerns could result in significant consequences.

Both senators called for legislators to consider regulating or banning facial recognition technology altogether. They also expressed their intention to address these concerns as soon as possible, including during a special session if called this year. They urged the Mall of America and its technology vendors to provide explanations to citizens about how the technology works and why privacy invasion and civil liberties violations are necessary.

In conclusion, Senator Fateh and Senator Lucero’s concerns highlight the unresolved public policy concerns surrounding privacy rights and facial recognition technologies. The implementation of such technology without proper regulation could pose significant risks to individuals’ privacy rights and civil liberties. Therefore, it is crucial that legislators take action to address these issues before it is too late.