Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2766

Introduced
3/4/26  

Caption

RELATING TO COMMERCIAL LAW -- GENERAL REGULATORY PROVISIONS --, RHODE ISLAND DELETE ACT

Impact

If enacted, the Rhode Island Delete Act is expected to significantly alter the landscape of data privacy laws within the state. The bill introduces strict guidelines on how data brokers operate, mandating that they provide a clear mechanism for consumers to request the deletion of their personal data. Additionally, brokers must regularly update their practices and undergo audits to ensure compliance with the new requirements. These measures aim to create a more transparent and accountable environment for data management and consumer protection.

Summary

S2766, known as the Rhode Island Delete Act, is legislation aimed at enhancing consumer privacy by regulating data brokers. The act requires any entity that knowingly collects, shares, or sells personal data of consumers—where there is no direct relationship—to register with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation. By establishing this framework, the bill seeks to empower consumers by allowing them to request the deletion of their personal data more effectively and securely. The intent of this legislation is to offer consumers greater control over their personal information and improve overall data management practices in the state.

Contention

Despite its positive intention towards consumer rights, the act may face contention due to its regulatory burden on data brokers, which include various businesses that handle consumer data. Critics may argue that the compliance costs for registration and maintaining deletion systems could disproportionately impact smaller data brokers. Moreover, the definitions within the bill regarding what constitutes a data broker and direct relationships may lead to significant debate, particularly concerning how existing regulations align with the new act. Navigating these complexities will be crucial for ensuring that the law serves the intended purpose without imposing undue hardship on businesses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0498

Exempts from taxation the non-commercial real and tangible personal property of Southside Community Land Trust, a Rhode Island domestic nonprofit corporation, located in Providence, Rhode Island.

RI H6229

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

RI S0951

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

RI H5217

Establishes the Rhode Island Clean Air Preservation Act that establishes a regulatory process to prohibit polluting atmospheric experimentation.

RI S0405

Establishes the Rhode Island Clean Air Preservation Act that establishes a regulatory process to prohibit polluting atmospheric experimentation.

RI S0805

Requires the Rhode Island general assembly to address its legislation with attention to equity and the impact its legislation will have on Rhode Island's diverse and various communities.

RI H5557

Establishes prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.

RI S0471

Establishes prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.

RI H5237

HOUSE RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING KATHLEEN A. BROWN ON HER RETIREMENT AFTER FORTY YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED AND DEVOTED SERVICE TO THE RHODE ISLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE CITIZENS OF RHODE ISLAND

RI H6157

Creates a new commercial fishing license for invasive green crabs for Rhode Island residents for twenty-five dollars ($25) annually.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.