Bipartisan Data Privacy Legislation Drafted by Lawmakers
Overview of the Agreement
Two U.S. lawmakers reached a consensus on new data privacy regulations that would significantly limit the information technology companies can gather from consumers. The proposed legislation grants Americans the authority to prevent the selling of their personal data and demand its deletion.
Key Points of the Draft Legislation
The bipartisan agreement between Senator Maria Cantwell and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers empowers individuals to control the usage of their personal data. It also mandates disclosure if data is shared with foreign adversaries.
Importance of the Legislation
Congress has been deliberating online privacy safeguards since 2019 due to concerns regarding data utilization by social media giants like Facebook, Google, and TikTok. Despite previous debates, no agreement had been reached until now.
Enhancements to Data Privacy
The proposed legislation grants the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general extensive jurisdiction over privacy matters. It establishes robust mechanisms for holding violators accountable, providing individuals with a private right of action.
Future of Data Privacy Laws
This draft legislation represents a significant progression in establishing a national data privacy and security standard, offering individuals sovereignty over their personal data. It signifies a culmination of years’ worth of efforts in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Further Protections and Safeguards
The bill introduces measures such as the ability for individuals to opt-out of data processing when companies alter their privacy policies. It mandates explicit consent before transferring sensitive data to third parties, empowering consumers to take legal action against privacy breaches.
The legislation endeavors to safeguard individuals, especially youth, from discriminatory practices by enforcing annual reviews of algorithms to mitigate potential risks and discrimination.
