Las Vegas is buzzing with news about the National Football League’s new security measures, which are facing pushback from local authorities. The Las Vegas Police Department is expressing serious concerns and has threatened to boycott working at Raiders games if these new measures are implemented.
According to Steve Grammas, president of the Las Vegas Police Protective Association, the NFL has moved in a direction that unsettles law enforcement. He explained that officers initially agreed to a policy that would clear the NFL of any liability if something were to happen during a game. However, that policy was lifted, leading to worries about the league’s decision to collect officers’ biometric data.
Biometric data refers to unique physical traits, such as facial recognition information. Grammas raised concerns over how this data may be used and shared, saying, “They’re going to use that however they need to… That branches into a lot of places that your biometric data could be exposed to a lot of people that you may not want it to be.” This statement highlights the complexity and potential dangers of having personal data in unfamiliar hands.
Grammas emphasized that he doesn’t want his biometric information shared with parties he doesn’t trust, especially since some might have views opposed to law enforcement. He mentioned that the police department was seeking to revert to a simpler method of credentialing, using wristbands instead of biometric data.
In response, the NFL stated they have had productive discussions with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department about their new security protocols, emphasizing that this new credentialing system would enhance overall safety at the stadiums.
As the preseason approaches, this issue remains unresolved and the **Raiders’** first regular season home game is not until Week 3 against the Carolina Panthers. As fans and players look forward to an exciting season, the outcome of these discussions will be key in shaping the atmosphere at the Allegiant Stadium.
