A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to requiring comprehensive reporting and oversight of the use of surveillance technology for law enforcement purposes by certain agencies

Summary

This local law amends the administrative code of New York City to enhance reporting and oversight of surveillance technology used by specific law enforcement and first responder agencies. It mandates these agencies, including the Fire Department, Department of Correction, and Office of Emergency Management, to develop and publicly post "Impact and Use Policies" (IUPs) for any new surveillance technology at least 90 days before its deployment. Existing technologies must have IUPs posted within 180 days of the law's effective date. These policies must detail the technology's capabilities, intended use, access restrictions, modification guidelines, training requirements, internal oversight, and potential disparate impacts on protected groups. The public will have 45 days to comment on proposed IUPs before they are finalized and published. The law also addresses intergovernmental data sharing, requiring policies on when data can be shared with local, state, or federal agencies, and specifically requires measures to minimize the risk of data being used for civil immigration enforcement. Furthermore, it prohibits the Police Department from using data from these agencies if doing so would circumvent an existing IUP. The law takes effect immediately.

Citizen Impact

This law increases transparency and public input regarding the use of surveillance technology by certain city agencies. Residents will have the opportunity to review and comment on policies governing how technologies like facial recognition are used, and there will be specific measures to limit data sharing for civil immigration enforcement, enhancing privacy protections.

Confidence

high