BSA Advocates for Federal Privacy Law to Protect Consumer Data in Washington Hearing
July 30, 2025 | Judiciary: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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The U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary convened on July 30, 2025, to address a pressing issue: the need for a comprehensive federal privacy law to protect Americans' online data. The meeting highlighted the urgent call for stronger regulations as Americans increasingly share personal information through various online platforms.
Joel Thayer, president of the Digital Progress Institute, emphasized that consumers are often unaware of how their data is used, stating, "73% of Americans feel they have limited to no control over how companies use their personal information." He pointed out that the current privacy policies are often filled with legal jargon, making them nearly unintelligible to the average person. Thayer argued that the government must intervene to ensure that privacy protections are in place, especially as technology evolves.
The discussion centered around three main goals for a federal privacy law: requiring companies to handle personal data responsibly, granting consumers new rights, and establishing strong enforcement mechanisms. Thayer noted the importance of distinguishing between "controllers" and "processors" of data, a distinction already recognized by 20 states with existing privacy laws. He urged that any federal legislation should build on these state laws rather than weaken them.
The committee also heard from other experts who echoed the need for targeted legislation that avoids the pitfalls of overly broad laws, such as the EU's GDPR, which can inadvertently entrench large tech companies. They stressed that effective enforcement is crucial, with state attorneys general playing a key role in upholding privacy rights.
As the conversation continues, there is a growing consensus that Congress must act swiftly to create a robust framework that safeguards Americans' digital identities. The committee's commitment to addressing these issues signals a significant step toward enhancing privacy protections in the digital age.
Joel Thayer, president of the Digital Progress Institute, emphasized that consumers are often unaware of how their data is used, stating, "73% of Americans feel they have limited to no control over how companies use their personal information." He pointed out that the current privacy policies are often filled with legal jargon, making them nearly unintelligible to the average person. Thayer argued that the government must intervene to ensure that privacy protections are in place, especially as technology evolves.
The discussion centered around three main goals for a federal privacy law: requiring companies to handle personal data responsibly, granting consumers new rights, and establishing strong enforcement mechanisms. Thayer noted the importance of distinguishing between "controllers" and "processors" of data, a distinction already recognized by 20 states with existing privacy laws. He urged that any federal legislation should build on these state laws rather than weaken them.
The committee also heard from other experts who echoed the need for targeted legislation that avoids the pitfalls of overly broad laws, such as the EU's GDPR, which can inadvertently entrench large tech companies. They stressed that effective enforcement is crucial, with state attorneys general playing a key role in upholding privacy rights.
As the conversation continues, there is a growing consensus that Congress must act swiftly to create a robust framework that safeguards Americans' digital identities. The committee's commitment to addressing these issues signals a significant step toward enhancing privacy protections in the digital age.
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