Specifies conditions for the issuance of optional mobile or digital alternatives to driver's licenses and non-driver identification cards; prohibits law enforcement from seeking consent for phone searches during identity verifications using mobile or digital alternatives to driver's licenses and non-driver identification cards.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A2651
SPONSOR: Solages TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to specifying
conditions for the issuance of optional mobile or digital alternatives
to driver's licenses and non-driver identification cards; and to amend
the executive law, in relation to prohibiting law enforcement from seek-
ing consent for phone searches during identity verifications using
mobile or digital alternatives to driver's licenses and non-driver iden-
tification cards
PURPOSE:
To establish guidelines for digital alternatives to driver's license and
nondriver identification cards.
SUMMARY:
Section 1. Amends the vehicle and traffic law by adding a new section
504-a.
Section 2. Amends the executive law by adding a new section 382-c.
Section 3. Sets the effective date.
JUSTIFICATION:
Electronic devices have become the default method of storing and sharing
personal information. From proof of vaccination, to personal insurance
information, New Yorkers utilize their personal electronic devices as a
digital wallet. The utility of its leather counterpart has clearly
declined.
With the summer 2024 release of the New York Mobile ID (MiD), all New
Yorkers now have access to digital identification. With a digital
license, everyone will be able to easily make any necessary updates to
their information and help to ensure that minor errors do not result in
fees and other consequences.
Many experts in the privacy and technology communities have strongly
voiced their concerns over the lack of transparency and clear privacy
guidelines in the current program. This piece of legislation will
address many of these issues by establishing best practices for mobile
digital identification.
RACIAL JUSTICE IMPACT:
TBD.
GENDER JUSTICE IMPACT:
TBD.
FISCAL IMPACT:
TBD.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2021-22: A8160; referred to transportation.
2023-24: A1018; referred to transportation.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect January 1, 2027.
