New Jersey Assembly Bill A1902

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

"New Jersey Disclosure and Accountability Transparency Act (NJ DaTA)"; establishes certain requirements for disclosure and processing of personally identifiable information; establishes Office of Data Protection and Responsible Use in Division of Consumer Affairs.

Impact

The NJ DaTA is expected to significantly impact the legal landscape surrounding consumer privacy in New Jersey. By instituting a framework for data accountability, the bill seeks to enhance consumer trust and protection in an era where data breaches are increasingly common. Additionally, it aims to provide a legal recourse for consumers if their data is mishandled, establishing a regulatory office dedicated to overseeing data protection practices and compliance. This may result in increased responsibilities for businesses regarding data management and potential penalties for non-compliance.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1902, also known as the New Jersey Disclosure and Accountability Transparency Act (NJ DaTA), is designed to enhance consumer rights regarding the handling and processing of personally identifiable information (PII). The bill mandates that entities collecting consumer information must obtain explicit consent before processing such data, ensuring that consumers are informed about how their information will be used. It also establishes protocols for data protection, requiring that consumers have the right to request accurate records of their data and to withdraw consent or request erasure of their information at any time.

Contention

However, the bill has raised concerns among various stakeholders, particularly around the implications of stringent data regulations on business operations. Critics argue that the extensive requirements could burden small businesses with compliance costs and hinder their ability to operate efficiently. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the enforcement mechanisms and how they might affect innovation in data-driven fields such as technology and marketing. Balancing consumer protection with business feasibility will be a key point of discussion as the bill progresses through legislative channels.