News

Portland city council bans facial recognition ahead of referendum

Portland city council bans facial recognition ahead of referendum

Photo: clipart.com


PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Portland city council has voted unanimously to ban the use of facial recognition technology.

Portland City councilors voted Monday in favor of the proposal submitted by City Councilor Pious Ali in November, the council did not explain why now was the time to move the item, the Portland Press Herald reported. The ordinance will take effect in 30 days.

Danielle West-Chuhta, the city’s top attorney, said that if voters approve the referendum in November to ban facial recognition it would replace the ordinance passed by the city council and can not be touched for five years.

Latest Headlines

46 minutes ago in Local

Sen. King to continue to vote for GOP stopgap bill to end shutdown

Fresh

Maine U.S. Sen. Angus King says he'll continue supporting a stopgap measure proposed by Republicans to open the government.

53 minutes ago in Local

11 dogs, 4 cats killed in fire that destroyed Avon home

Fresh

11 dogs and four cats were killed in a fire in Franklin County.

8 hours ago in Local

Dion Frustrated Over Delay in Renewal of Popular Music Festival

City Council members are clashing over the terms of the contract

21 hours ago in Local

Mills Could Announce U.S. Senate Run Next Week

Axios reports a source says the announcement will certainly happen this month

23 hours ago in Local

UMaine Fort Kent Hosting First-Ever Poutine Fest

The gathering is being described as a way to celebrate the  Acadian culture.