Facial Recognition and Biometric Technology Moratorium Act of 2026

This bill would make it illegal for federal agencies and federal officials, including contractors, to acquire, possess, access, or use facial recognition or other biometric surveillance systems in the United States, or information from such systems run by others, unless a later Act of Congress specifically authorizes it with detailed rules. Information gathered in violation of the ban could not be used by the federal government in most legal proceedings. Individuals harmed could sue the federal government for damages, and state attorneys general could bring civil actions to enforce the law. Starting the first fiscal year after the bill becomes law, states and local governments could not receive federal Byrne public safety grants unless they follow a law or policy substantially similar to the federal ban.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Pramila Jayapal Democrat sponsor
• 8 cosponsors