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Council adopts resolution opposing ID/biometric requirements for social media access
Summary
By voice and roll-call votes the council adopted a resolution (sponsored by Councilor Santana and co-sponsored by Councilor Mejia) urging state lawmakers to reject proposals that would require ID uploads or biometric verification for social-media use, citing risks to privacy and to life‑saving online supports for vulnerable communities.
The Boston City Council on Tuesday adopted a resolution opposing federal and state proposals that would require people to upload government identification or submit biometric scans in order to access social media.
Councilor Santana, who introduced the measure, said the resolution responds to legislation circulating at the state and federal level and frames a city position that protecting digital privacy and access to resources must not be sacrificed in attempts to regulate large technology platforms. "We refuse to let our digital rights be dismantled," he said as he introduced the measure.
Evan Greer, director of Fight for the Future, told the council such ID or biometric requirements would exclude many undocumented people and would drive LGBTQIA+ youth and people seeking health resources off platforms that provide crucial support. "These are acts the access to these tools is essential. It's not a luxury," Greer said.
Councilors voted to adopt the resolution on suspension and passage. The resolution asks state policymakers to prioritize regulation that holds platforms accountable without forcing identity verification that could threaten civil liberties or access to life‑saving services.
