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Amarillo adopts 'digital dignity' ordinance requiring data minimization and oversight board
Summary
Council adopted a 'Digital Dignity' ordinance that requires the city to limit collection of personal data to what is necessary to deliver public services, create documentation of systems 'wherever possible' (with cybersecurity exceptions), and establish an advisory board and whistleblower protections for data misuse.
The Amarillo City Council adopted an ordinance (No. 8198) establishing baseline rules for how city government may collect and handle personal data from residents, civic users and third‑party systems.
Key provisions include: a data‑minimization principle — the city shall collect only the personal data necessary to effectively deliver public services — and a requirement to document digital systems and initiatives that interact with personal data "wherever possible" while excluding situations that would compromise cybersecurity or public‑safety operations. The ordinance establishes an advisory body (including a council appointee), vendor oversight expectations, record‑keeping standards, and whistleblower protections to report potential misuse.
Staff said the law is meant to increase transparency and set minimum standards for procurement, privacy reviews and public information. Council incorporated edits during the meeting to clarify language around exceptions for safety and security and to add a council member to the advisory board. The measure passed with no recorded opposition.
City staff said they will publish explanatory materials for the public and coordinate the advisory board’s initial charter and membership over the coming months.
