Prohibits use of facial recognition technology on consumer except for legitimate safety purpose.

New Jersey's S 968 prohibits businesses selling goods or services at retail or public venues (like malls or sports arenas) from using facial recognition technology on consumers, except for clear safety reasons like preventing harm. It defines "facial recognition" broadly as software identifying people by face or tracking body movements to infer emotions or location, and "legitimate safety purpose" narrowly as actions that genuinely reduce life-or-safety risks. Violations face fines up to $10,000 for first offenses and $20,000 for repeat violations, plus potential legal penalties. The bill is currently pending in the Senate Commerce Committee after introduction on January 9, 2024.