Senator Maroney Leads Senate Passage of Data Privacy and Online Safety Bill

Today, state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford), Chair of the General Law Committee, led Senate Passage of a bill that will amend laws related to consumer data privacy, social media, and youth online monitoring. The bill also seeks to introduce registration and regulation requirements for data brokers.

Senate Bill 1356, ‘An Act Concerning Data Privacy, Online Monitoring, Social Media, Data Brokers And Connected Vehicle Services,

“There is an increasing need for websites to take greater responsibility in implementing robust data security measures,” said Sen. Maroney. “As online platforms continue to collect and process vast amounts of personal information, ensuring the protection of user data should be a top priority. As we have seen from recent chatbox’s engaging children in sexualized conversations, we need to do more to protect children from harm online.”

Senate Bill 1356 builds on our state’s landmark Connecticut Data Privacy Act (PA 22-15). It covers more consumers under the act by widening the threshold for its applicability. It gives consumers more information and options regarding how their data is used. It increases platform responsibility to protect children.

In further efforts to protect consumers, it requires data brokers to be registered with DCP. And lastly, the bill protects victims of domestic violence and similar crimes by protecting their car’s data from the person who has abused them.

This bill will:

-require websites aimed toward children to have a cyberbullying and mental health resources page. The measure aims to provide young users with immediate access to support and guidance, promoting safer and more supportive online environments.

-establish the right for individuals to know if they are being digitally profiled, empowering them with greater transparency. This provision ensures users can make informed choices and exercise their right to opt out of data profiling practices.

-strengthen protections for children in Connecticut by prohibiting targeted advertising aimed at them. This move aims to safeguard young users’ privacy and reduce the influence of manipulative marketing tactics online.

-mandate data protection assessments to evaluate potential risks associated with data collection and processing. These assessments must specifically test for heightened risks of harm, ensuring that companies proactively identify and address threats to users’ privacy and safety.

-prohibit the use of addictive features designed to engage children, aiming to promote healthier online habits. It requires tools to prevent adults from directly communicating with children without proper safeguards, and gives children the ability to consent to their own data profiling and employment-related activities, ensuring greater control over their digital lives.

In 2024, there were 1900 data breaches in Connecticut. With this legislation, more websites will be held responsible for ensuring there is data security on their sites. Prioritizing data security, websites can enhance user trust, prevent breaches, and comply with evolving privacy regulations, ultimately fostering a safer digital environment.