California Governor Vetoes Bill Banning Covert Wearable Recording Devices

California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed a bill that sought to prohibit the use of wearable devices equipped with cameras and microphones for secretly recording individuals in public spaces. The proposed legislation aimed to address privacy concerns arising from the increasing prevalence of such technology.

The bill, which had passed the state legislature, would have imposed penalties on individuals using devices like "pervert glasses" or other discreet wearables to capture audio and video without the knowledge or consent of those being recorded. Proponents argued it was a necessary step to protect personal privacy in an era of advanced surveillance technology, while opponents raised concerns about potential overreach and the definition of "secretly recording."