House GOP eyes nationwide rules on data collection

CyberScoop reports that House Republicans have introduced a draft national digital privacy bill aimed at establishing business and consumer data protections against exploitation for advertising and other purposes.

The proposed Secure Data Act grants consumers opt-out rights, requires transparent data collection notices, ensures data portability, and mandates parental consent for minors data usage. More stringent personal data handling rules would also be imposed on businesses, with the bill requiring clear disclosure of how information will be used and shared, including with third parties and foreign governments. The draft legislation would also extend the Federal Trade Commissions authority over data brokers by mandating registration and compliance with security and transparency standards.

While supporters viewed the move as progress toward a national privacy standard, critics, including Center for Democracy and Technology's Eric Null, claimed that the proposed bill is not only weaker than several existing state laws, but also overrides stronger measures such as those in California, removes individuals' ability to sue companies, and allows companies time to correct violations before penalties are imposed.