A researcher at the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology uncovered much higher error rates
in facial recognition technology created by
brand-name tech firms in classifying the gender
of darker-skinned women than for lighter-
skinned men.
Supporters of the legislation, including the
American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts,
say government regulations are needed to
make sure the technology isn’t abused. They
say that should also apply to other emerging
technologies that try to identify a person from
their voice or the way they walk.
A similar facial recognition ban is under
consideration in Somerville.
Not everyone is ready to back the bill.
Attorney General Maura Healey, the state’s top
law enforcement officer, said she hadn’t had a
chance to review the legislation.
“To be honest, I want to take a look at it,” the
Democrat said. “Obviously I’d expect a careful
and thoughtful analysis.”
Republican Gov. Charlie Baker told reporters
this month that he’s also not ready to support
the legislation.
“My understanding is most of that is regulated
at this point at the federal level,” Baker said.
“Whether or not it should be regulated
at the state level is something we’ve had
conversations about, but they’re not to the
point where I’d be ready to file legislation.”
Image: Steven Senne