Maryland Attorney General and Coalition Push Back Against Federal Data Privacy Bill

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has joined a coalition of 18 state attorneys general and agencies in voicing strong opposition to the proposed federal Securing and Establishing Consumer Uniform Rights and Enforcement over Data Act, or SECURE Data Act. This federal legislation, if enacted, would preempt robust privacy protections already established by Maryland and other states, potentially weakening safeguards for consumers’ personal information. The coalition argues that the SECURE Data Act offers insufficient privacy protections and would hinder states’ ability to protect their residents’ data.

The core concern raised by Attorney General Brown and the coalition is that the SECURE Data Act would override existing state-level privacy laws, including Maryland’s own Online Data Privacy Act. These state laws have implemented significant consumer protections, such as enhanced safeguards for minors and sensitive personal data, limitations on data usage and retention, and mechanisms for consumers to opt out of the sale of their information through universal preference signals. The federal bill, as proposed, is seen as a step backward, potentially granting businesses more latitude in handling consumer data while diminishing consumers’ ability to control their information and limiting enforcement options for state officials.

The coalition’s letter to Congress urges lawmakers to reject the SECURE Data Act and to uphold the privacy standards already set by states. They contend that states are better positioned to address the specific privacy needs of their residents and to adapt quickly to the ever-evolving landscape of technology and data collection practices. The attorneys general involved represent a broad range of states, underscoring a widespread sentiment among state leaders that a federal privacy framework should complement, rather than dismantle, existing state-level consumer protection efforts. Maryland residents, in particular, could see their current data privacy rights curtailed if this federal legislation were to pass without significant amendments to preserve state authority.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office

Video Spotlight