Rep. Fishbein’s Bill to Strengthen Data Privacy Passes Committee Hurdle
Last week, State Representative Craig Fishbein (R-90) joined his fellow members of the Government Administration and Election (GAE) Committee, who voted unanimously to move forward Rep. Fishbein’s bill intended to strengthen protections for Connecticut residents from the problems of privacy breaches and the resulting cases of identity theft.
HB 5310 – “An Act Concerning Data Privacy Breaches” expands the definition of protected personal information and extends notification requirements to include anyone who “owns, licenses, or maintains computerized data that includes personal information.” The bill also requires data managers to disclose security breaches within 60 days after a breach is discovered and allows that notice to be delivered electronically only if the provider can “reasonably verify” that the electronic communication made it to the intended recipient.
“This measure strengthens Connecticut’s already strong state laws regarding data breaches by expanding the definition of personal information, shortening the time required for data managers to report a breach, and making sure those affected are notified expeditiously through currently acceptable means,” Rep. Fishbein said. “Whether for personal or business use, our online identities are more important than ever. I’m encouraged that my colleagues on the committee, through their unanimous support, join me in being committed to finding ways to thwart predatory scammers and others who steal and misuse personal information.”
The bill garnered supportive testimony from the financial, healthcare, insurance and business industry groups including the State Privacy and Security Coalition, a group of 29 telecommunications, technology, retail, payment card, automobile, and online security sector companies that also includes eight trade associations.
The bill has been referred to the House Calendar and awaits further action. The legislative session ends at midnight on Wednesday, June 9th.