New York Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Regulate Gait Recognition Surveillance

 

New York City’s streets are often packed with people rushing to work, running errands, or simply enjoying the day. For many residents, walking is faster than taking the subway or catching a taxi. However, a growing concern is emerging — the way someone walks could now be tracked, analyzed, and used to identify them. 

City Councilmember Jennifer Gutierrez is seeking to address this through new legislation aimed at regulating gait recognition technology. This surveillance method can identify people based on the way they move, including their walking style, stride length, and posture. In some cases, it even factors in other unique patterns, such as vocal cadence. 

Gutierrez’s proposal would classify a person’s gait as “personal identifying information,” giving it the same protection as highly sensitive data, including tax or medical records. Her bill also requires that individuals be notified if city agencies are collecting this type of information. She emphasized that most residents are unaware their movements could be monitored, let alone stored for future analysis. 

According to experts, gait recognition technology can identify a person from as far as 165 feet away, even if they are walking away from the camera. This capability makes it an appealing tool for law enforcement but raises significant privacy questions. While Gutierrez acknowledges its potential in solving crimes, she stresses that everyday New Yorkers should not have their personal characteristics tracked without consent. 

Public opinion is divided. Privacy advocates argue the technology poses a serious risk of misuse, such as mass tracking without warrants or transparency. Supporters of its use believe it can be vital for security and public safety when handled with proper oversight. 

Globally, some governments have already taken steps to regulate similar surveillance tools. The European Union enforces strict rules on biometric data collection, and certain U.S. states have introduced laws to address privacy risks. However, experts warn that advancements in technology often move faster than legislation, making it difficult to implement timely safeguards. 

The New York City administration is reviewing Gutierrez’s bill, while the NYPD’s use of gait recognition for criminal investigations would remain exempt under the proposed law. The debate continues over whether this technology’s benefits outweigh the potential erosion of personal privacy in one of the world’s busiest cities.