Omnicell and the Illinois Biometric Privacy Act: What Happened in 2022?
Illinois has a unique law, the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), that safeguards residents’ fingerprints, facial scans, and other biometric data. In 2022, there were rumblings of a lawsuit against Omnicell, a healthcare technology company, concerning BIPA. But what exactly went down?
While there wasn’t a public court battle in 2022, Omnicell did disclose its involvement in a BIPA class-action lawsuit filed in 2019. The details are scarce, but it highlights the ongoing importance of BIPA in Illinois.
Think of your fingerprint like a digital key. BIPA ensures companies get your permission before creating a copy of that key. The 2019 lawsuit suggests Omnicell might have collected biometric data from Illinois residents without following the proper BIPA procedures.
Here’s the interesting part: There haven’t been any public updates on the lawsuit’s resolution since 2022. This could mean a few things: the case might still be winding its way through the legal system, a settlement might have been reached quietly, or the lawsuit could have been dismissed altogether.
Without official information, it’s difficult to say for sure. But one thing is clear: BIPA continues to be a hot topic in Illinois, and companies like Omnicell need to tread carefully when handling residents’ biometric data.
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FAQs
Can I still sue Omnicell under BIPA?
It depends. BIPA has a strict timeline for filing claims. You’d need to consult an attorney specializing in BIPA to determine your eligibility.
How do I know if Omnicell collected my biometric data?
Omnicell has a privacy policy outlining data collection practices https://ogletree.com/insights-resources/blog-posts/first-jury-verdict-issued-in-illinois-biometric-privacy-act-class-action/. If you’re unsure, reach out to them directly.
What are the damages for a BIPA violation?
BIPA allows for significant financial compensation, often in the form of thousands of dollars per violation.
Is BIPA relevant outside of Illinois?
No, BIPA is specific to Illinois residents. However, other states have similar laws, so it’s always wise to research your state’s regulations.
How can I protect my biometric data?
Be cautious about where you provide fingerprints or facial scans. Read privacy policies carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Where can I learn more about BIPA?
The Illinois Attorney General’s website offers a wealth of information on BIPA: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=3004&ChapterID=57
Sources
www.cna.org/reports/2022/01/Dimensions-of-Autonomous-Decision-making.pdf