Connecticut House Bill HB06393

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/20/23

Caption

An Act Establishing Additional Data Privacy Protections For Minors.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6393 will result in significant changes to state laws governing data privacy, particularly as they pertain to minors. The bill will introduce a fiduciary duty for online platforms collecting information from minors, meaning that these platforms must prioritize the minors' interests over their own business interests. This shift could lead to increased accountability for online services and may require them to reevaluate their data collection practices and privacy policies. Additionally, businesses will need to implement clearer opt-out options for the collection and use of minors' personal information in advertising.

Summary

House Bill 6393, known as the Act Establishing Additional Data Privacy Protections for Minors, seeks to enhance protections for minors interacting with online services and products. The bill imposes stricter consumer protection measures on businesses that provide online services likely to be accessed by minors. The key provisions include mandatory safeguards that prioritize the health, safety, and privacy of minors and the implementation of default privacy settings that maximize protection for young users. It aims to address growing concerns related to data security and privacy in a digital age where minors are increasingly exposed to online risks.

Contention

While the bill has a strong focus on protecting minors, it may also raise concerns among businesses about the potential burdens of compliance with the new regulations. Some critics may argue that the additional requirements could stifle innovation and create barriers for online platforms, particularly smaller companies that may struggle with the costs associated with implementing the mandated protections. Furthermore, there could be debates on the adequacy of the safeguards set forth in the bill and whether they truly address the complex challenges presented by online security for minors.