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Bill

A 407

Prohibits the use of reverse location and reverse keyword searches

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Burdick and 40 co-sponsors

Bill A 407 protects consumer privacy by banning reverse location and keyword searches, limiting data misuse by businesses and law enforcement agencies.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 407

Summary of Bill A 407

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 407
  • Title: Prohibits the use of reverse location and reverse keyword searches
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 407 aims to protect individuals' privacy by prohibiting the use of reverse location searches and reverse keyword searches. These practices involve using data to identify individuals' locations or activities based on their online searches or interactions. The intent of the bill is to enhance consumer privacy rights and limit the potential misuse of personal data by businesses and law enforcement.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition of Reverse Searches: The bill specifically prohibits the use of:

    • Reverse Location Searches: Techniques that identify an individual's location based on their data or online behavior.
    • Reverse Keyword Searches: Methods that track and analyze search queries to infer personal information about individuals.

  • Scope of Application: The bill applies to both private entities and government agencies, ensuring that all parties are held to the same standards regarding the use of personal data.

  • Enforcement Mechanisms: While specific enforcement mechanisms are not detailed in the current version, the bill may include provisions for penalties or fines for violations, which would be determined during the legislative process.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Consumers: Individuals who use online services and search engines would benefit from enhanced privacy protections.
  • Businesses: Companies that rely on data analytics for marketing or law enforcement purposes may need to adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.
  • Law Enforcement: Agencies may face restrictions on their ability to conduct investigations that rely on reverse searches, potentially impacting their operational capabilities.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Status: As of January 8, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration. This is an early stage in the legislative process, and the bill will need to pass through various committees and potentially face amendments before it can be voted on by the full legislature.

  • Related Bills: Bill A 407 is related to several prior-session bills, including:

    • A 10246
    • A 84
    • A 3306
    • S 404 (companion bill)

These related bills may provide context or additional frameworks regarding privacy and data protection legislation.

Conclusion

Bill A 407 represents a significant step towards enhancing privacy protections for individuals in the digital age. By prohibiting reverse location and keyword searches, the bill seeks to limit the potential for misuse of personal data, thereby fostering a safer online environment for consumers. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and implications of this bill.

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

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