Mets Owner Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Under NYC Biometrics Law

The New York Mets organization is facing a class-action lawsuit alleging violations of New York City’s Biometrics Privacy Law, filed on behalf of New Yorker Chris Dowling. The lawsuit claims that Sterling Mets, the owner of both the team and CitiField, uses facial recognition technology to collect fans’ biometric information, which it then allegedly profits from without their consent.

This practice, the complaint argues, violates a 2021 New York City law prohibiting entities from selling, leasing, or otherwise profiting from biometric data transactions.

The Biometric Identifier Information Law, which took effect on July 9, 2021, primarily applies to “commercial establishments” such as retail stores, entertainment venues, and food and drink establishments. It mandates that businesses collecting biometric information, including facial recognition scans, fingerprints, or iris scans, must display clear signage at entrances to inform customers about the data collection; and it strictly prohibits these establishments from profiting from the sale, lease, or exchange of biometric data in any form, regardless of value​

The lawsuit alleges that the organization benefits financially in two main ways. First, by deploying facial recognition instead of manual security measures, the Mets reportedly reduce labor costs for monitoring the 400,000 square-foot stadium. Secondly, the complaint contends that fans unknowingly pay a premium for tickets, which purportedly includes the cost of undisclosed biometric data collection.

The class action, representing more than 100,000 individuals, seeks damages for alleged reckless or intentional violations, which under the law could amount to $5,000 per violation, as well as attorneys’ fees and injunctive relief.

Sterling Mets recently moved the case to federal court in the Eastern District of New York but has not yet responded to the allegations. The case surfaces as the Mets celebrate a playoff milestone, advancing to the National League Championship Series for the first time in nine years.

Source: Insurance Journal

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October 11, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith