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Bill Summary · SB 1038

Summary of Bill SB 1038: Relating to Privacy

Bill Number: SB 1038
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Status: Reported from ECD (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1380) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to CPC.
Primary Sponsor: Chang

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 1038 aims to enhance privacy protections for individuals by establishing clearer guidelines regarding the handling of personal information. The legislation seeks to address concerns related to data security breaches and the unauthorized use of specified data elements, thereby promoting greater transparency and accountability among entities that collect and manage personal data.

Key Provisions

  • Personal Information Protection: The bill outlines specific requirements for organizations that handle personal information, including the need for clear notices regarding data collection and usage.

  • Security Breach Notification: It mandates that entities must notify affected individuals promptly in the event of a security breach involving their personal data.

  • Specified Data Elements: The legislation defines what constitutes "specified data elements," which may include sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, financial account details, and health records.

  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill includes provisions for enforcement, allowing individuals to seek remedies if their privacy rights are violated.

Impact

  • Individuals: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are consumers whose personal information is collected and stored by various organizations. Enhanced privacy protections will empower individuals to have more control over their personal data.

  • Businesses and Organizations: Entities that collect personal information will need to comply with the new regulations, which may require adjustments to their data management practices and policies.

  • Legal Framework: The bill establishes a more robust legal framework for addressing privacy violations, potentially leading to increased accountability for organizations that fail to protect personal data.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced.
  • January 21, 2025: Passed First Reading.
  • January 23, 2025: Referred to the Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN).
  • February 14, 2025: Public hearing scheduled by CPN.
  • February 19, 2025: CPN recommended the bill be passed with amendments.
  • February 27, 2025: Report adopted; passed Second Reading as amended (SD 1).
  • March 6, 2025: Referred to the Committee on Economic Development (ECD).
  • March 14, 2025: ECD recommended the bill be passed with amendments.
  • March 19, 2025: Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to CPC.

Conclusion

SB 1038 represents a significant step toward strengthening privacy protections for individuals in the face of increasing concerns about data security. By establishing clear guidelines for the handling of personal information and requiring prompt notification of breaches, the bill aims to foster a safer environment for consumers in the digital age.

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

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