Energy and Commerce Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers expressed her concern as a parent about the exploitation of children’s sensitive data online. In an effort to alleviate these fears, she is working towards implementing a new federal data privacy standard. Rodgers emphasized the dangerous activity online, stating that data collection is crucial in the development of algorithms used to target children and individuals with harmful content and advertising. She highlighted reports of predatory groups targeting children on social media and the dangers associated with such interactions, including mental health issues and exposure to dangerous substances like fentanyl.
Teaming up with Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation Chair Maria Cantwell, Rodgers introduced a bipartisan framework to provide Americans with more control over their personal data shared online, as well as empower them to take action against bad actors who exploit this sensitive information. The bill also aims to limit the collection of sensitive data, such as location information and biometrics, by companies without explicit permission. Rodgers emphasized the strong accountability measures in the proposed legislation, which would enable the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general to pursue entities engaging in malicious practices. Individuals would also have the right to sue companies that fail to comply with their data privacy wishes, especially in cases where data breaches or hacks result in clear harm.
The forthcoming legislation, if passed, would establish the first-ever federal data privacy standard. While the issue of data privacy has been a longstanding concern, Rodgers emphasized the urgent need for Congress to address this issue and give individuals control over their data. She emphasized the significance of establishing a national privacy standard, particularly in the context of rapidly evolving technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Rodgers highlighted the importance of protecting children online and ensuring the privacy and security of all Americans in the digital space, stressing the necessity of implementing this legislation to safeguard individuals in the age of advanced technology.
In addition to providing individuals with greater control over their personal data, the legislation aims to enhance accountability by allowing for regulatory and legal action against entities that violate data privacy standards. It empowers individuals to take legal action against companies that continue to collect and sell their data without consent, especially in cases where data breaches result in harm. Rodgers expressed her commitment to advancing the bill through Congress and noted that a hearing was scheduled for the upcoming week. By setting a federal data privacy standard, the legislation seeks to address longstanding concerns about the exploitation of personal data and ensure that individuals have control over their digital footprint, safeguarding their privacy and security in an increasingly connected world.
Overall, Rodgers emphasized the urgent need for Congress to pass comprehensive data privacy legislation to protect individuals, particularly children, from online threats and exploitation. By setting a national privacy standard and holding companies accountable for violating data privacy rules, the proposed legislation aims to empower individuals to control their personal information and mitigate the risks associated with data breaches and malicious activities online. As technology continues to advance, Rodgers stressed the importance of establishing robust privacy protections to ensure the safety and security of individuals in the digital age.
