Providing for breach of information, for reporting requirements and for civil relief.
The bill impacts state laws by introducing mandatory requirements for entities that handle personal information to notify residents in case their data is compromised. This act will preempt existing local regulations, thereby creating a uniform standard across all municipalities in Pennsylvania. The stipulations also include provisions for civil actions against violators, which empowers affected residents and the Attorney General with the ability to seek penalties for breaches involving insufficient security measures or failure to provide notifications.
House Bill 759, known as the Breach of Personal Information Act, aims to enhance the protection of personal data by establishing clear protocols for entities in Pennsylvania regarding data breaches. The bill outlines definitions, responsibilities, and civil relief measures related to the unauthorized access of personal information, emphasizing the need for timely notification to affected individuals while also detailing the requirements for maintaining data security. By placing a regulatory framework in place, HB759 seeks to mitigate risks associated with personal information data breaches and ensure better compliance among businesses regarding data security practices.
The sentiment surrounding HB 759 is largely supportive among consumer advocacy groups and privacy proponents who view it as an essential step toward improving data protection standards. The legislative discussions underscore public concern over increasing data breaches and identity theft, highlighting the need for strong protections. However, some entities express apprehension regarding the potential burden this bill may place on businesses, fearing it could impose stringent compliance costs and operational limitations, particularly for smaller organizations.
Notable points of contention regarding HB 759 revolve around the balance between consumer protection and business compliance. Opponents argue that the bill may inadvertently shore up excessive liabilities for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, which could struggle with costly compliance measures or civil penalties. Advocates counter that the bill is necessary to ensure that personal data is treated with the utmost seriousness, reflecting a growing awareness and demand for privacy safeguards in the digital age.