Montana House Bill HB966

Montana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/28/23
• Refer: 3/29/23

Caption

Providing agricultural data collection protections

Impact

By incorporating these regulations, HB 966 has the potential to significantly influence how agricultural businesses operate regarding data handling. It establishes legal guidelines that must be followed to ensure that customers are informed and have agency over their own data. This change may lead to a shift in the industry's data practices, fostering a culture of respect for individual data ownership and promoting transparency when dealing with sensitive information. The bill is likely to align with broader privacy trends in various sectors, reflecting increasing public concern over how personal data is managed.

Summary

House Bill 966 aims to introduce regulations surrounding the collection and use of agricultural data within the state. The bill mandates that entities engaged in the buying or exchanging of agricultural data provide clear disclosures to customers regarding the purpose and nature of the data collection. This requirement is intended to enhance transparency and protect the rights of individuals whose data is being collected. Additionally, it allows customers the option to opt out of data collection practices that lead to commercial exploitation of their data, which is a notable measure for safeguarding privacy rights in agricultural transactions.

Contention

While the bill is generally well-received for its protective measures, there may be points of contention regarding the implications for businesses relying heavily on data collection for commercial gain. Some stakeholders could argue that the required disclosures and opt-out provisions might hinder operational efficiency or lead to challenges in data-driven decision-making. Additionally, the $25 filing fee for submitting aggregated data may be seen as a financial burden by some smaller businesses, raising questions about the balance between data protection and economic viability.