Hawaii Senate Bill SB1178

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/27/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Refer: 2/17/23

Caption

Relating To Privacy.

Impact

The modification of the definition of 'personal information' to include a broader array of identifiers and data elements is expected to enhance protections for personal privacy. This includes recognizing identifiers such as usernames, mobile numbers, emails, and biometric data. By expanding the scope of what constitutes personal information, the bill aims to ensure that individuals receive adequate notifications in the event of a data breach, thereby reinforcing consumer protection laws in the digital age.

Summary

SB1178 aims to modernize the definition of 'personal information' under chapter 487N of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. This legislative effort is a response to findings from the 21st Century Privacy Law Task Force, which highlighted the inadequacies of existing privacy laws in the face of evolving digital technologies. The bill emphasizes the necessity of updating the definition due to the increasing risks associated with data breaches where personal and sensitive information may be exposed, placing individuals at risk of identity theft and compromising their safety.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to safeguard privacy, there may be concerns regarding the compliance burden placed on businesses. The inclusion of additional compliance requirements could provoke discussions on the necessity of balancing consumer protection with the operational realities for companies, particularly in terms of how they manage personal data. Critics may argue that the costs of implementing these new standards could disproportionately affect small businesses and startups, which could lead to calls for clarification on the compliance thresholds and the applicability of the new rules.