Montana State Legislature
Committee Topic: Facial Recognition Technology
Committee Topic: Facial Recognition Technology
Interim committees may take up other matters related to the agencies and topic areas they oversee. Depending on whether members put greater or less emphasis on their statutory duties related to interim studies and agency monitoring, they have more time to focus on LJIC-relevant member issues.
Members may propose investigation of emerging issues at any time during the interim. Agencies may also request that the Committee study an emerging issue that has resulted from court decisions, federal actions, or another cause.
Emerging issues are not necessarily member issues and may be raised by an agency or by staff. However, to be on the agenda, the presiding officer or other LJIC member must request agenda time.
Facial Recognition Technology Related Materials:
July 2023:
The committee adopted its work plan and selected a moderate level of study of facial recognition technology.
Meeting Materials: N/A
September 2023:
The committee heard a presentation on the 2021-2022 Study of Facial Recognition Technology conducted by the Economic Affairs Interim Committee (EAIC), reviewed the committee's final report and associated legislation, and received a report from the Division of Criminal Investigation required by Senate Bill 397. Representatives from EAIC suggested LJIC study facial recognition technology use in schools, a topic that EAIC did not have time to explore.
Meeting Materials:
- House Joint Resolution 48 Final Report - Erin Sullivan, LSD
- SB 397
- Montana Analysis and Technical Information Center (MATIC) Facial Recognition Technology Use Annual Report, Anne Dormady, DOJ
November 2023:
The committee discussed options for areas of focus, and requested to examine how facial recognition technology is being used in schools and by law enforcement, and the risks and benefits of both areas.
Meeting Materials:
February 2024:
The committee heard from a panel of stakeholders concerning how facial recognition technology is being used by Montana schools and law enforcement. The panel included representatives from DOJ MATIC, OPI, and the Montana School Board Association. Staff also presented an overview of privacy legislation in other states.
Meeting Materials:
- Overview of Other State's Privacy Legislation - Laura Sherley, LSD
