The Senate Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections, and Consumer Protection convened on December 19, 2023, to discuss significant legislation aimed at enhancing consumer data privacy in Wisconsin. The meeting commenced with acknowledgments of the committee's active role in addressing pressing issues, particularly the growing concerns surrounding personal data collection by corporations.
The primary focus of the meeting was a proposed bill designed to empower Wisconsin consumers with greater control over their personal data. A committee member emphasized that the United States has lagged in establishing robust consumer data protections, leading to widespread public concern about the risks associated with data collection. The proposed legislation seeks to address these concerns by granting consumers specific rights regarding their personal data. These rights include the ability to inquire about data collection practices, correct inaccuracies, delete personal data, obtain copies of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising and profiling.
Under the bill, data collectors would be mandated to inform consumers about their rights and must respond to consumer requests within a 45-day timeframe. The committee highlighted that as the collection and use of personally identifiable information increases, so does the potential for misuse, making such legislation crucial. Several states have already enacted similar data protection policies, and Wisconsin aims to join this movement to ensure consumer rights are upheld.
The discussion also acknowledged the long journey of this legislative effort, which began several years ago with initial proposals from Representative Zimmerman. The committee expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have brought the bill to its current stage, indicating a commitment to advancing consumer protection in the state.
As the meeting progressed, the committee members reiterated their support for the bill, recognizing its importance for Wisconsin residents. The session concluded with a call for continued collaboration to finalize the legislation, ensuring that consumers are equipped with the necessary tools to manage their personal data effectively.