Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Let me start by asking a quick favor -- could you please spend a moment taking a very brief survey on transportation? There are only three questions, and your feedback will help guide me as the Legislature tackles this important issue. I'll share the results with you in the next update. Thank you!
Another important issue we're working on is data privacy protection. Whether the result of security breaches or overly aggressive data collection, many people feel personal information is too vulnerable to exposure and/or exploitation.
Among the privacy bills this session, two in particular stand out:
1) When a breach involving consumer financial information occurs, the business or organization must notify consumers within 45 days. (House Bill 1078)
2) The collection and tracking, for commercial purposes, of so-called "biometric identifiers" -- through fingerprint and eye scans, for example, or facial identification and voice analysis -- is prohibited unless a person is first informed or gives consent. The same goes for the sale of such information. (House Bill 1094)
As technology moves forward at lightning speed, it's crucial that we have strong consumer protections in place. I think we're on the right track with these bills, both of which passed the state House today.
Do you have any questions, comments or concerns about state government or the legislature? Please feel free to contact my office! My legislative aide, Cami, and I are here to help. My email, phone number and mailing address are at the bottom of this update.
Sincerely,
Mark Harmsworth
44th Legislative District
(360) 786-7892 or Toll-free: (800) 562-6000
