Consumer Privacy

Privacy is an issue that continues to grow in importance. Due to an increase in paperless transactions, better technology, and new ways to market to consumers, keeping one’s personal history secure is increasingly difficult. In recent years, there has been a rise in identity theft, which costs consumers, businesses, and financial institutions over $56 billion each year. Federal and State legislators and regulators continue to enact laws to protect consumers, often to the considerable expense of businesses.

A federal standard on privacy would create national guidelines that help businesses and commerce between states. Due to privacy limitations set forth by the FMLA and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), it is difficult for businesses to determine the extent to which an employee will be away from his/ her job due to injury. This can create staffing issues and make it difficult for businesses to mitigate problematic conditions. Companies need access to the information critical to meeting their obligations of returning injured workers to work and ensuring safe work environments. Privacy needs to equally protect and benefit the consumer, business, and employee. Business understands the need for consumer privacy protection and works closely with government and law enforcement to create a secure climate. With electronic commerce expanding at a high rate, lawmakers must gain a deeper understanding of how consumers benefit from information sharing and allow businesses greater flexibility.

Positions

CP-1: Support privacy guidelines set forth in the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act.

CP-2: Support fair and equitable State and local regulations that align within federal guidelines and do not interfere with a company’s ability to serve its customers.

CP-3: Support for legislation that allows businesses to access critical information required to respond to the workplace needs of injured or disabled employees and prevent further injury in the workplace.

CP-4: Oppose burdensome privacy regulations that would stifle commerce while providing little protection to the consumer.

CP-5: Oppose local privacy ordinances that preempt or modify State or Federal regulation.