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Bill

Bill

S 33

An Act establishing the Comprehensive Massachusetts Consumer Data Privacy Act

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Driscoll

Massachusetts proposes comprehensive consumer data privacy law establishing business data handling requirements and strengthening resident privacy protections against corporate collection and misuse.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2516
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Bill Summary · S 33

Legislative bill overview

S 33 establishes Massachusetts's comprehensive consumer data privacy framework, creating new rights and responsibilities for how businesses collect, use, and protect personal data. The bill was referred to the Advanced Information Technology committee in February 2025 and has since been accompanied by a revised draft (S2516) in May, indicating ongoing refinement of its provisions.

Why is this important

Data privacy legislation directly affects how Massachusetts residents' personal information is handled by companies, potentially limiting corporate data practices while creating compliance obligations for businesses. Massachusetts would join several other states with comprehensive privacy laws, creating a patchwork of state-level regulations that affects national commerce and corporate compliance strategies.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance burden: Companies argue comprehensive privacy regulations increase operational costs, particularly for small businesses unfamiliar with complex compliance requirements
  • Scope and definitions: Disagreement likely exists over what constitutes "personal data," how broadly it applies to different industries, and which businesses are exempt
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Disputes may arise regarding enforcement authority, penalty structures, private right of action (whether consumers can sue directly), and resources allocated to oversight

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

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