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H.R. 8470119th CongressIn committeeLatest action Apr 23, 2026Decoded by AI · checked against the record
The plain-language version leads. The official text is always the reference.
HR 8470 would require government agencies to get a court warrant before accessing your personal data or using facial recognition to track you.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
This bill would require government agencies to get a court order before searching personal data, even data stored with private companies like banks or cloud services. It would ban warrantless use of facial recognition, license plate readers, and similar tracking tools in public spaces. Exceptions exist for emergencies, things officers can plainly see, checking ID during a traffic stop, and information that is freely available to anyone online.
This bill applies to government agencies and officials, including federal employees, who conduct searches or use surveillance tools. People whose rights are violated could sue the official responsible and may have their legal fees covered.
Right now, data stored with a private company can sometimes be accessed by the government without a warrant, and user agreements can be used to allow that access. This bill would change that, meaning government access to personal data and public surveillance would face stricter legal requirements.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it. Read the official bill on Congress.gov
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.