Relative to the expectation of privacy in the collection and use of personal information.
If enacted, the provisions of HB314 will significantly affect state laws pertaining to the collection and handling of personal information. It designates the Attorney General as the sole entity authorized to enforce compliance and seek remedies for any violations, thereby centralizing regulatory power regarding data privacy. This bill will also impact how businesses and government entities handle personal information, requiring them to seek explicit consent from individuals before disclosing their personal information, with few exceptions for emergencies and legal obligations.
House Bill 314 (HB314) aims to establish a framework for the protection of personal information and the expectation of privacy within the State of New Hampshire. The bill introduces a new chapter under the state's revised statutes, defining critical terms related to personal information and outlining the conditions under which third-party providers can collect, retain, and disclose such information. It specifies that individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy regarding their personal data and places restrictions on how third-party providers may utilize that data.
Notable points of contention around HB314 involve the balance between individual privacy rights and the needs of law enforcement or emergency services. Critics may argue that the bill places too many restrictions on the ability of third-party providers and government entities to access necessary data during critical situations. Additionally, questions may arise regarding the adequacy of the penalties and enforcement mechanisms included in the bill, which define remedies for violations without establishing a private right of action, potentially limiting individuals' ability to seek damages directly under this statute.