San Francisco Outlaws Police Use of Facial Recognition Technology

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted on Tuesday to outlaw the use of facial recognition technology by police and other government agencies.

The board vote was 8-1 in favor of banning the use of the emerging new technology, which supporters say can help police find and apprehend criminals but detractors say could lead to misuse.

According to Fox News , Supervisor Aaron Peskin—who championed the legislation—said he was worried that "Big Brother" technology would lead to a greater police state in the city.

Catherine Stefanie—the only supervisor to vote against the ban—said facial recognition technology could help bolster public safety, especially during large events.