Senator Markey Introduces Comprehensive Privacy Legislation

Sen Edward Markey (D-Mass.) introduced comprehensive federal privacy legislation to protect American consumers’ personal information. The Privacy Bill of Rights Act would establish rules for both online and offline companies and bans the use of individuals’ personal information for harmful, discriminatory purposes, such as housing and employment advertisements targeted based on demographics like race and gender. It also includes cybersecurity standards and provides the Federal Trade Commission with rulemaking authority. Specifically, the Privacy Bill of Rights Act:

• Prohibits companies from using individuals’ personal information in discriminatory ways
• Requires companies to protect and secure the personal information that they hold
• Establishes a centralized FTC website that tells consumers about their privacy rights and requires companies to use easy to read short-form notices provided directly to consumers
• Ensures companies collect only the information they need from consumers in order to provide the requested services
• Enables State Attorneys General to protect the interest of their residents and bring action against companies that violate the privacy rights of individuals. Individuals will also have a private right of action empowering them to defend their own privacy rights.