National Security Presidential Directive 59/Homeland Security Presidential Directive 24

Overview
The National Security Presidential Directive 59/Homeland Security Presidential Directive 24 (NSPD 59/HSPD 24), "Biometrics for Identification and Screening to Enhance National Security," establishes a framework to ensure Federal departments and agencies use compatible methods and procedures in the collection, storage, use, analysis, and sharing of biometric] and associated biographic and contextual information of individuals in a lawful and appropriate manner, while respecting privacy and other legal rights under U.S. law.

This directive builds upon existing coordination efforts and helps to ensure that high-level plans are implemented throughout government. This directive does not impose requirements on State, local, or tribal authorities, or on the private sector. It also does not provide new Federal authority for collection, retention, or dissemination of information, or for identification and screening activities.