Intern reports Senators raised privacy concerns about H.211 (Act 110) data-broker bill

Abbott Saddles, a VPM legislative intern, told the House Committee on Commerce & Economic Development on April 10 that Senate Economic Development discussion of H.211 (Act 110) focused on limits on data-broker collection and consumer opt-out mechanisms. Abbott said Senator Ram Hinsdale questioned whether the proposed opt-out would have the impact she wanted and raised concern about residual collection.

Abbott said Representative Ryan Priestley, the bill sponsor referenced by senators in that hearing, replied that the legislation was unlikely to ban the data-broker industry entirely but that other states, including Maryland, are experimenting with stricter restrictions. Abbott told members that disclosures required under the proposal would be posted on the Attorney General’s website and on data-broker websites, and that the Senate committee’s overall sentiment was positive though more discussion was expected.

Why it matters: H.211 would affect firms that compile and sell personal data and how Vermonters can control or learn about that collection. Committee members did not take action during the intern briefing; Abbott’s account indicates the sponsors and some senators are still negotiating the strength of opt-out and disclosure requirements.

The committee did not vote on H.211 during the meeting and no formal action was recorded.