The Senate Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections, and Consumer Protection convened on December 19, 2023, to discuss significant developments in data privacy legislation in Wisconsin. The meeting focused on a proposed bill aimed at enhancing consumer protection regarding personal data, particularly in light of advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and data collection practices.

The session began with a presentation from a technology entrepreneur who emphasized the transformative potential of AI and the importance of data as a valuable asset. He highlighted that AI could lead to a productivity increase of over 50%, surpassing previous technological innovations. However, he cautioned that unchecked data usage could lead to serious privacy violations, including the potential for personal data to be weaponized.

The proposed bill seeks to address these concerns by establishing clear rights for consumers regarding their personally identifiable information (PII). Key provisions of the bill include the right for individuals to inquire about what data is collected about them, to whom it has been shared, and the ability to opt-out of data collection practices. The bill aligns with existing regulations in sectors like healthcare and finance, ensuring that it does not alter current protections under laws such as HIPAA.

During the discussion, committee members raised concerns about the potential administrative burden on businesses and the implications for consumer costs. Proponents of the bill argued that the legislation would not adversely affect loyalty programs or increase prices for consumers, as it primarily targets large data collectors and aims to enhance transparency.

The committee also addressed the need for a cohesive approach to data privacy at the federal level, acknowledging that while state legislation is necessary, a uniform national standard would be ideal. The bill has undergone extensive revisions over three legislative sessions, incorporating feedback from various stakeholders, including the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Opposition to the bill was voiced by representatives from the Wisconsin Grocers Association, who expressed concerns about the potential impact on businesses and the complexity of compliance. They acknowledged the authors' efforts to refine the legislation but maintained that further consideration is needed to balance consumer protection with business interests.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed a commitment to continue refining the bill and addressing stakeholder concerns, with the aim of advancing consumer data protection in Wisconsin. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments before a vote is scheduled.