Pennsylvania House Bill HB997

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/25
• Refer: 3/24/25

Caption

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.

Impact

The impact of HB997 on state laws is significant, as it establishes a more robust framework for handling data breaches. This bill is poised to affect various sectors that deal with personal data, obliging them to adhere to stricter guidelines regarding the notification of breaches and the safeguarding of information. By enhancing legal clarity, HB997 aims to enhance consumer trust in digital transactions while holding entities accountable for data security lapses. This potentially results in a more uniform application of data protection across the state.

Summary

House Bill 997 (HB997) seeks to enhance the protection of personal information by providing clearer definitions and processes surrounding data breaches. The bill outlines the necessary notifications required when a breach occurs and introduces new provisions for exceptions to these notifications. It aims to repeal outdated provisions related to civil relief, aligning state laws with contemporary expectations surrounding personal information security. The updates include a focus on stronger data security measures which are pivotal in the age of digital information exchange.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB997 appears to be generally positive, with supporters emphasizing the necessity of updated protections for personal data in the face of growing cybersecurity threats. Advocates for the bill hope that these changes will not only help prevent data breaches but also ensure that individuals are swiftly informed when their information is compromised. Nevertheless, some concerns have been raised about the feasibility of adherence, particularly for smaller entities that may lack the resources to comply with the new regulations. This brings forward discussions about balancing data protection with practical operational capabilities.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding HB997 include debates about the practicality of required notifications and the repercussions for non-compliance. Critics suggest that the bill may impose excessive burdens on smaller businesses that may struggle to manage the compliance demands effectively. Additionally, some stakeholders argue that the bill could potentially lead to over-notification, which may desensitize consumers to breaches—diminishing the intended response to actual threats. As it stands, the ongoing discussions indicate that while there is broad support for strengthening data protection, the mechanisms for enforcement and compliance remain points of active discourse.