Connecticut Senate Bill SB00066

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/15
• Refer: 1/14/15

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Use Of Social Security Numbers In Certain Consumer Transactions.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would amend the general statutes to explicitly restrict the use of Social Security numbers in retail transactions. The measure is anticipated to have significant implications for how businesses collect and handle personal data, particularly in online and digital settings. By limiting access to such sensitive information, the bill seeks to foster a safer marketplace for consumers and enhance consumer confidence in retail transactions. It aligns with broader trends in legislative efforts aimed at protecting consumer data and privacy rights.

Summary

SB00066, proposed by Senator Doyle, aims to enhance consumer protection by prohibiting retail businesses from requiring customers to provide their Social Security numbers during consumer transactions. The bill is designed to safeguard personal information and mitigate the risk of identity theft by ensuring that sensitive data is not unnecessarily collected or disclosed in retail environments. The initiative reflects a growing concern regarding privacy and security in digital transactions, which have become increasingly relevant as online shopping continues to expand.

Contention

While the bill might garner widespread support from consumer advocacy groups and individuals concerned about identity theft, it could face pushback from some retail organizations that argue that certain business practices require the collection of Social Security numbers for various reasons, such as credit transactions or identity verification. Balancing the need for consumer protection with the operational requirements of retail businesses will be a critical aspect of the legislative debate surrounding SB00066. Overall, the bill highlights the ongoing tension between privacy, security, and business interests.