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S 301

An Act advancing the economic development of the commonwealth through comprehensive data privacy

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts proposes comprehensive data privacy law to protect consumer information while supporting state economic development, currently under committee review.

Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2885
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Bill Summary · S 301

Legislative bill overview

S. 301 is a Massachusetts data privacy bill designed to establish comprehensive consumer data protection standards while supporting economic development in the state. The legislation was introduced by Senator Barry Finegold and is currently under review by the Economic Development and Emerging Technologies committee, with a hearing scheduled for November 13, 2025.

Why is this important

Data privacy legislation affects how businesses collect, use, and protect consumer information, which impacts both individual privacy rights and business operations. Massachusetts, home to significant tech and financial sectors, faces pressure to establish clear privacy rules that compete with or harmonize existing frameworks like California's privacy laws and potential federal standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Companies may argue that comprehensive state-level privacy requirements create financial burdens, especially for small businesses, or create fragmented regulatory environments if state rules differ from federal or other state standards
  • Definition and scope of "economic development": The bill's framing around economic development suggests potential tension between strong privacy protections and business interests—determining which takes priority in conflicts could be contentious
  • Data use restrictions: Businesses relying on data analytics, targeted advertising, or consumer profiling may resist limitations on data access, while privacy advocates may push for stricter controls than the bill provides

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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