Panel reports bill to bar sharing student‑athlete biometric data without consent

The subcommittee reported HB 9‑71 on a 5–2 vote after questioning about the bill’s scope.

The bill, presented on behalf of Delegate Price, would prevent institutions of higher education from sharing the biometric data of student‑athletes without written consent and bar making possession or ownership of biometric data a condition of any contract. Committee members and the patron discussed whether the definition of biometric data would reach DNA or biological sex determinations; sponsors said the bill focuses on fingerprints, voice recordings and similar identifiers in the context of NIL and other contracts.

Delegate Garrett said she would support the bill if it is clarified to make explicit that it would not preclude determinations about biological sex for sports eligibility; the patron did not accept friendly amendments on the spot but the committee discussed options for clarification. After debate, the subcommittee reported HB 9‑71 to the next committee on a 5–2 vote.