NYC’s tech office doesn’t know how agencies are using AI, biometric data, official admits in oversight hearing
https://statescoop.com/nyc-ai-biometric-oversight-hearing/
Publish Date: 2026-03-02 17:00:00
Source Domain: statescoop.com
- City officials struggled to answer questions about the use of artificial intelligence and biometric data during a New York City Council oversight hearing.
- Lawmakers are considering two bills to ban biometric data collection in businesses and residential areas, while questioning the deployment of such tools by government agencies.
- Alex Foard, assistant commissioner at the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI), admitted limited oversight and that OTI does not track all biometric data collection.
- Council members criticized OTI for its lack of information, enforcement power, and strategy in regulating the use of these technologies across city agencies.
- Despite a recent leadership change at OTI, committee members continued to press for transparency and clearer policies on the government’s use of biometric data and AI, particularly around civil rights issues.
- OTI was urged to provide specific datasets and information on the use of these technologies by city agencies following council committee discussions.
