Oregon bill gives drivers control over car data

Oregon lawmakers are considering a new bill aimed at giving drivers more control over their personal data collected by cars. Modern vehicles are now equipped with various sensors and cameras, which can track a lot of information about their users. Representative David Gomberg is the chief sponsor of the bill, known as House Bill 3875. He described the privacy risks associated with cars at a recent hearing. He noted that cars can track details about drivers' habits, preferences, and even personal activities without their knowledge. The proposed bill intends to update existing privacy laws in Oregon to include car manufacturers. The Oregon Consumer Privacy Act already requires large businesses handling the data of 100,000 or more residents to comply with specific privacy rules. Supporters of HB 3875 claim that smaller car companies could still avoid these regulations. If passed, the bill would require car manufacturers to get permission from drivers before sharing or selling their data. However, the bill does not apply to commercial truck manufacturers. Critics of the bill, including the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, argue that it could create unfair rules for smaller car manufacturers. They believe that small automakers should not have to follow different rules from other companies. A report by the Mozilla Foundation highlighted concerns over how car manufacturers collect personal data. The study found that most brands reviewed gather personal information and share it with third parties. In addition, lawmakers are reviewing another bill, House Bill 3899, which seeks to broaden the state's data privacy law. This bill would include companies that collect data from at least 35,000 people and impose stricter rules on data sharing. Supporters of HB 3899 believe it would enhance consumer protections, while opponents worry it could be too burdensome for smaller companies.