Oregon legislators introduce House Bill 2428 to protect personal data privacy

Oregon's House Bill 2428, introduced on January 17, 2025, aims to enhance individual privacy by restricting public bodies from collecting personal data without consent. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Diehl, Reschke, Yunker, and Mannix, specifically prohibits the collection of information regarding a person's political, religious, or social views, associations, or activities unless explicit consent is granted.

This legislative measure seeks to address growing concerns over privacy and data collection practices by public entities. By amending ORS 181A.250, the bill reinforces the principle that individuals should have control over their personal information. However, it does allow law enforcement agencies to collect such data without consent if it pertains to an active investigation of criminal activities and there are reasonable grounds for suspicion.

The introduction of House Bill 2428 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and privacy advocates. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward safeguarding civil liberties and preventing potential misuse of personal information by government bodies. Critics, however, express concerns that the restrictions may hinder law enforcement's ability to effectively investigate and prevent crime.

The implications of this bill are significant, as it could reshape the landscape of data privacy in Oregon. Experts suggest that if passed, it may set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, reflecting a broader national conversation about privacy rights in the digital age.

As the legislative session progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's journey through the assembly, anticipating debates that could influence its final form. The outcome of House Bill 2428 could have lasting effects on the relationship between citizens and public institutions, emphasizing the importance of consent in data collection practices.