Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0396

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Electronic Information And Data Privacy Act

Impact

The bill seeks to place clear restrictions on how law enforcement can obtain and use electronic data, thus ensuring greater accountability and transparency in the collection of personal information. By requiring warrants, S0396 aligns with constitutional protections against unreasonable search and seizure, echoing Fourth Amendment rights. It also reinforces the notion that privacy should be upheld in the digital age, where personal data is often stored and transmitted electronically. This change could significantly impact how law enforcement agencies operate, potentially requiring more thorough justification and oversight before accessing individuals’ private information.

Summary

S0396, also known as the Electronic Information and Data Privacy Act, aims to enhance the privacy rights of individuals regarding their electronic information and data. This bill mandates that law enforcement agencies must obtain a search warrant to access electronic information, which includes location data, stored data, and transmitted data from electronic devices, in order to conduct criminal investigations or prosecutions. Exceptions are defined, allowing access to such data without a warrant under specific emergency conditions, such as imminent threats to life or risk of human trafficking.

Contention

However, the bill may face contention from various stakeholders, particularly in law enforcement and security sectors, where concerns may arise about the ability to respond swiftly in dangerous situations. Critics may argue that requiring a warrant could hinder timely investigations, especially in cases where immediate access to data is critical, such as in instances of abduction or imminent threats. Discourse around the bill may also center on balancing individual privacy rights against public safety concerns, making it a focal point in ongoing discussions about civil liberties in the face of modern technology.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI HB0261

Electronic Information Privacy Act Amendments

RI S0061

Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.

RI S2154

Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.

RI H7208

Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.

RI H5361

Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.

RI A02565

Creates the New York electronic communications privacy act; requires government agents and agencies to obtain a search warrant for physical or electronic access to electronic device information.

RI H5360

Requires search warrant for electronic information, prohibits stingray cell-site simulators.

RI H2027

To protect electronic privacy

RI HB6687

DRIVER Act Data Rights for Information and Vehicle Electronics in Real-time Act

RI H6062

Establishes a new chapter for privacy protections for location information derived from electronic devices. DBR would be responsible for promulgating rules and regulations to implement administer and enforce this chapter.

Similar Bills

PA HB1970

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

CA AB1800

Portable electronics and optical products insurance.

TX SB1531

Relating to the electronic payment of ad valorem taxes; authorizing a fee.

PA SB861

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

NJ S1336

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

NJ A3229

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

MD SB842

Electronic Smoking Devices - Seizure and Wholesaler Record-Keeping Requirements

NV AB18

Revises provisions relating to the electronic filing of certain documents. (BDR 5-469)