Tennessee Senate Bill SB2858

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 47 and Title 65, Chapter 4, relative to the "Motor Vehicle Consumer Privacy Act of 2024."

Impact

If enacted, SB2858 will amend existing statutes, particularly within Title 65, Chapter 4 of the Tennessee Code Annotated. It mandates automobile manufacturers to inform purchasers of their ability to opt out of data sharing, establish rules for notifying the Commission about objections, and ensure transparency in data collection practices. The implications of this bill are significant as it seeks to create formal protocols around consumer privacy, ultimately affecting how automobile manufacturers handle consumer data across the state, starting from January 1, 2025.

Summary

Senate Bill 2858, also known as the 'Motor Vehicle Consumer Privacy Act of 2024', aims to bolster the privacy protections of consumers purchasing new motor vehicles in Tennessee. The bill establishes a framework for consumers to object to the usage of their personal data by automobile manufacturers. Specifically, it requires the Tennessee Public Utility Commission to create a database that includes the names and contact information of purchasers who have opted out of data sharing. This database is intended to ensure that consumers' preferences regarding their personal data are respected, effectively giving them more control over how their information is used.

Contention

Notable points of contention may include the balance between consumer privacy and the operational practices of automobile manufacturers. Critics may argue that increased regulation could impose undue burdens on manufacturers, particularly small ones, whereas advocates will champion consumer rights and privacy protection. The bill outlines penalties for violations, including civil penalties for manufacturers that fail to comply, suggesting a strong regulatory approach to ensure adherence to consumer privacy standards. As the landscape of data sharing continues to evolve, discussions around this bill may ignite debates about how much control consumers should have over their information and the role of government in regulating data practices.