NE Washington News

Washington D.C. — House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered opening remarks at the Innovation, Data, and Commerce Subcommittee markup of three legislative proposals.

“Our personal identity is at the very core of what makes us human,” Rodgers stated. “It drives us to achieve the impossible and inspires us to pursue our goals and dreams. The ability to express our individual identity helps define who we are and deepen ties to our families and our communities.”

Rodgers emphasized the importance of individualism in American society, noting that many believed the internet could further empower individuals by creating new ways for people and businesses to connect, innovate, and share information. However, she expressed concern over how trust has been broken over time.

“Instead, over time our identity has been slowly eroded... Big Tech is capturing more and more data to surveil and control over our lives,” she said. “Americans should be in control of how that information is disclosed, and it should be voluntary, not coerced.”

Rodgers introduced the American Privacy Rights Act as a potential solution: “The American Privacy Rights Act is an opportunity for a reset... It gives people the right to control their personal information online.” She highlighted issues such as unauthorized sharing of location data by apps on phones and keeping people's search history private.

“This bill stops those apps from sharing or selling this data without permission,” Rodgers explained. “The American Privacy Rights Act gives the power back to the people by equipping them with knowledge of how their data is being used.”

Addressing concerns about children’s safety online, Rodgers noted: “This legislation is so important, especially foundational for protecting kids online.” She shared her fears as a mother regarding her children's online activities due to mistrust in current practices.

“As our kids scroll [social media], companies collect nearly every data point imaginable... They intentionally target children with dangerous content,” she said. Rodgers referenced testimonies like Ava's story about Big Tech exploiting vulnerabilities through collected data.

“This legislation gets to the root cause of these problems by minimizing the collection and exploitation of our data,” she added. The draft includes key provisions from other acts aimed at protecting children’s privacy online.

On supporting small businesses amidst varying state regulations on data privacy laws, Rodgers remarked: “18 states now have comprehensive data privacy laws... Ensuring compliance is costly.” She mentioned that some companies might withdraw from certain states due to conflicting standards.

“Our bill would end this patchwork,” she stated while also discussing H.R. 8449—the A.M. Radio for Every Vehicle Act—highlighting its importance during public emergencies.

Rodgers concluded by expressing optimism about bipartisan cooperation on these legislative efforts: “We have a moment to change the status quo... I urge my colleagues to advance the legislation today.”