NE Washington News

Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman John Joyce, Vice Chairman of the same committee, have issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking input from stakeholders on data privacy. The initiative is part of efforts by a newly-formed data privacy working group to explore a federal comprehensive data privacy and security framework.

The RFI outlines several key areas for consideration. Among them is the challenge posed by technological advancements and complex state and federal laws which sometimes conflict. "The United States digital economy adds $2.6 trillion in value and employs millions of American workers across nearly every sector of the broader economy," noted the congressmen. They emphasized that leadership in digital technologies supports U.S. economic and national security while providing consumers with access to affordable goods and services.

Stakeholders are invited to submit their responses by April 7, 2025, addressing topics such as roles within the digital economy, personal information transparency, existing privacy frameworks, data security, artificial intelligence regulation, accountability, enforcement, and any additional relevant information.

The RFI also poses questions about how a federal law might consider different roles in the digital economy—such as controllers and processors—and what obligations should be placed on these entities. Additionally, it seeks input on consumer rights related to personal information and potential protections under a comprehensive law.

Questions are raised about lessons learned from existing privacy laws both domestically and internationally since 2016. Stakeholders are asked to comment on the fragmentation of U.S. privacy protections at the state level and its impact on businesses.

A section dedicated to artificial intelligence addresses how state-level AI frameworks should be integrated into federal legislation. Furthermore, considerations around accountability include discussing whether expert agencies should have sole enforcement authority over such a law.

For those interested in contributing insights or suggestions to this legislative effort aimed at shaping future data privacy standards in the U.S., detailed submissions are encouraged via email at PrivacyWorkingGroup@mail.house.gov.