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Bill

H 520

An act relating to the right of users to control their social media data

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Monique Priestley

Vermont bill requiring social media platforms to give users control over personal data collection, access, and deletion rights.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 520

Legislative bill overview

H.520 establishes user rights to control personal data collected by social media platforms operating in Vermont. The bill would require social media companies to provide users with access to their data, allow deletion requests, and potentially limit data sharing with third parties. This represents Vermont's attempt to create state-level data privacy protections similar to existing frameworks in California and other jurisdictions.

Why is this important

Social media platforms collect vast amounts of personal data used for targeted advertising, algorithmic recommendations, and other commercial purposes, often with limited user transparency or control. Vermont residents currently lack comprehensive legal protections over how their information is used, while tech companies operate under minimal state-level restrictions. This bill would give users tangible rights to understand and manage their digital footprint.

Potential points of contention

  • Commerce burden: Tech companies argue compliance costs are substantial, potentially affecting service availability or forcing fee structures for Vermont users specifically
  • Definitional challenges: The bill must clearly define "social media" and "personal data" to avoid unintended consequences or legal ambiguity about which platforms are covered
  • Interstate complexity: Enforcing state-level data rules conflicts with platforms' national/global operations, raising questions about implementation feasibility and constitutional authority
  • Security risks: Expanded data access mechanisms could create new vulnerabilities if user information is exposed during retrieval or deletion processes

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

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