Aurora committee split on bill banning government purchase of personal data; staff recommends oppose

City staff recommended the Pfizer committee take an 'oppose' position on a state bill that would prevent government entities from purchasing or otherwise obtaining personal data from third‑party vendors, arguing the prohibition would unduly restrict law‑enforcement and public‑safety functions.

Staff explained that the bill contains exemptions for warrants, subpoenas and individual consent, but also creates a private cause of action and would prevent governments from obtaining vendor data that city investigators currently rely on, such as automated license‑plate reader (ALPR) feeds and vendor‑retained records. "We do rely on a lot of this data for legitimate purposes," staff said, listing uses such as locating missing or endangered persons, public‑health follow‑up and municipal compliance work.

The committee did not reach a single position. Vice Chair Jackson said she supports the bill as written; Chair Lawson and staff recommended opposition; Council Member Wiles said she was open to amendments and asked for time to review proposed changes that might preserve public‑safety uses while addressing privacy concerns. The committee recorded all three positions (oppose, support, amend) to be forwarded to full City Council for its vote.

Why it matters: a statutory ban on government purchase or use of third‑party personal data could constrain investigative timelines and city operations that rely on vendor data; conversely, proponents argue such limits protect privacy and create accountability for vendor practices.

Next steps: the split committee positions will be reported to City Council; staff said they will continue to work on potential amendment language and provide follow‑up to committee and council.