Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii and 18 other senators have reintroduced the 2018 Data Care Act to set stronger criteria for sensitive information.
This shows that lawmakers are not giving up on a plan to protect online data, forcing companies to reasonably secure identifying data, and prompt customer notifications during cyberattacks.
There Is Still No Guarantee That The Revived Act Will Succeed
A group of 19 senators led by Schatz have reintroduced the Data Care Act, a measure that would establish stricter guidelines for the protection of private data online.
According to the legislation, companies must "reasonably secure" identifiable information and tell clients right away if there is a breach.
The Data Care Act will prevent websites and apps from using user data for malicious reasons, safeguard user data from hacks, and hold businesses accountable for misuse.
Engadget writes that additionally, it forbids the harmful use of data and requires that third parties treat shared data with the same care.
The legislation enables the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to impose fines on businesses and third parties who break the law.
Hence, States may also bring their own civil lawsuits, but the FTC may intervene if it is judged appropriate.
Democratic senators who oppose big tech, like Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobuchar, as well as Independents Bernie Sanders and Angus King, are among those who favor the legislation.
It can be remembered that with the support of 15 Democrats, the original Data Care Act was submitted in December 2018 but was never put to a vote.
As the initial bill was introduced in December 2018 but never put to a vote, there is no assurance that the revived Act would pass, Global Village Space writes.
Republicans will be in charge of the House in 2023, while Democrats hold the majority in the Senate, making the likelihood that the revived proposal will pass uncertain.
It is important to note that an equivalent law will not be sent to the President's desk for approval if a vote in the House is split along partisan lines.
Read More: New Senate Bill a Potential First Step Into a Proper US Privacy Law
Legislators Claim That The Conditions Of The Bill Might Be More Favorable This Time
The circumstances might be better this time for the legislation because President Biden has stated a desire to restrain Big Tech and restrict the gathering and use of data.
Data security and privacy are becoming more important issues for Congress' two major parties, according to Engadget.
Should The Data Care Act become law, it would theoretically appease these politicians by giving businesses greater responsibility.
In conclusion, the Data Care Act's reinstatement is a step in the right direction for safeguarding private data online, Global Village Space says.
Its success is unknown, but it underscores the public's and governments' rising concern about data security and privacy.
To avoid penalties and legal action, businesses must be accountable for protecting personally identifying information and treating shared data with respect.
Related Article: California Lawmaker Urges NTC to Investigate Company Providing Police with Surveillance Tools
