Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB414

Introduced

3/14/23

Refer

3/14/23

Caption

Further providing for definitions.

Impact

The passage of HB 414 would update state laws regarding data privacy and security, reflecting the evolving landscape of digital financial transactions. This legislative change is poised to extend the responsibilities of businesses and organizations to notify individuals whose personal information may have been disclosed due to a security breach, thus reinforcing consumer trust in digital payment systems. Additionally, this is expected to push for more stringent security measures from businesses handling sensitive consumer data, promoting a higher standard of care regarding personal information storage and handling.

Summary

House Bill 414 aims to amend Pennsylvania's Breach of Personal Information Notification Act by expanding the definition of 'personal information' to include new elements such as digital wallets. This amendment is designed to bolster consumer protection in the context of increasing digital transactions and data security concerns. By including digital wallets in the definitions of personal information, the bill seeks to ensure that individuals are notified when their digital transaction information is compromised, just as they would be for more traditional forms of personal data like Social Security numbers or financial account information.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 414 appears generally positive, considering the heightened awareness of data security among consumers and the increasing number of data breaches. Legislators supporting the bill argue that enhancing definitions to encompass emerging technologies such as digital wallets is essential for modernizing Pennsylvania's privacy laws. However, there may be some concerns regarding the burden this places on businesses, particularly smaller companies, which highlights the ongoing debate about balancing consumer protection with the implications for business operations.

Contention

While the bill has gained support, there are discussions about the implementation challenges it may present for businesses. Opponents might argue that expanding the definitions could lead to excessive compliance costs, especially for smaller entities that may struggle to manage the operational overhaul necessary to meet new notification requirements. This tension reveals an ongoing conflict between the need for robust consumer protection in the face of rising technological risks and the economic impacts on businesses that must adapt to these regulatory changes.

Latest PA HB414 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session HB414

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB824

Further providing for definitions, for notification of the breach of the security of the system and for notification of consumer reporting agencies; and providing for credit reporting and monitoring.

PA HB997

Further providing for definitions, for notification of the breach of the security of the system, for exceptions and for notice exemption; repealing provisions relating to civil relief; providing for protection of personal information, for civil relief, for information security and for applicability; and repealing provisions relating to applicability.

PA HB1342

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.

PA HB129

Further providing for definitions.

PA SB861

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

PA HB2428

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration of vehicles, further providing for registration card to be signed and exhibited on demand; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

PA HB1247

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand; and, in fees, further providing for driver's license and learner's permit.

PA SB40

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for departmental responsibilities and for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration and for application with driver's license application, providing for Commonwealth agencies and other entities and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; and providing for privacy and security standards for voter registration in this Commonwealth.