S. 2850: Protecting Legislators and Survivors of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence from Doxing and Political Violence Act

This bill, known as the "Protecting Legislators and Survivors of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence from Doxing and Political Violence Act," aims to enhance the safety and security of Members of Congress and certain individuals connected to them, particularly regarding the protection of private information. Here are the main provisions of the bill:

Definitions and Scope

• At-risk individuals: This term includes Members of Congress, their immediate family members (spouses, parents, children, etc.), designated congressional staff, and former Members of Congress.
• Covered information: Refers to personal details like home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, Social Security numbers, and other identifying information of at-risk individuals.

Protection of Information

The bill mandates that specific government agencies must:

• Mark the covered information of at-risk individuals and their immediate family members as private.
• Not publicly display or post any covered information of at-risk individuals.
• Remove such information from publicly available sources within 72 hours upon receiving a request from the at-risk individual.

Data Brokers and Other Businesses

The legislation outlines restrictions on data brokers:

• It prohibits data brokers from selling, licensing, or trading covered information of at-risk individuals.
• Other businesses cannot publicly display covered information if requested not to by the at-risk individual or their immediate family.
• They must remove such information within 72 hours upon request.

Exceptions

There are specific exceptions outlined in the bill, including:

• Disclosure for news stories or public interest reporting.
• Information willingly shared by the at-risk individual post-enactment of this bill.
• Data lawfully obtained from federal sources.

Legal Redress and Enforcement

At-risk individuals can pursue legal action if their covered information is publicly disclosed in violation of this bill. They may seek injunctions or declarations in court against those who improperly disclose their information.

Delegation of Authority

The bill allows at-risk individuals to authorize representatives to make requests related to the protection of their information on their behalf, aiming to streamline the process for those in vulnerable positions.

Implementation and Compliance

This act places the responsibility on various governmental agencies and private entities, ensuring they comply with these protective measures for at-risk individuals. Compliance will mean not only refraining from public disclosure but also actively removing any past disclosures upon request.

Relevant Companies

• None found