Oregon's Senate Bill 1121, introduced on April 14, 2025, aims to tackle the growing concern over the unlawful disclosure of private information. This legislation establishes a new crime specifically targeting the intentional sharing of personal data with the intent to stalk, harass, or injure individuals. Offenders could face up to six months in prison, a $2,500 fine, or both.

The bill defines "unlawful disclosure" broadly, encompassing various forms of sharing personal information, including home addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers. It stipulates that such disclosures must occur without the consent of the individual and must lead to harassment or injury, as defined by the law.

Notably, the bill includes an exemption for certain noncommercial educational broadcast stations from existing consumer data privacy laws, sparking debate among lawmakers and privacy advocates. Critics argue that this exemption could undermine the bill's intent by allowing media entities to bypass important privacy protections.

Supporters of the bill emphasize its necessity in an era where personal data is increasingly vulnerable to misuse, highlighting the potential for emotional and physical harm resulting from such disclosures. Experts suggest that the legislation could set a precedent for similar laws in other states, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of data privacy.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications for both individual privacy rights and media practices will be closely monitored. If passed, Senate Bill 1121 could significantly reshape the landscape of data privacy in Oregon, balancing the need for protection against the rights of media entities.