SPRINGFIELD, Ill. –State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, recently passed legislation creating stronger protections of the online data of students across Illinois.
“The internet has become an integral part of everyday life and, as a result, consumer data has become a valuable commodity and big corporations are reaping the benefit,” Hoffman said. “My proposal strengthens online data protections for children in Illinois by restricting how websites and online apps can collect, compile, and disclose information collected on students.”
Hoffman’s proposal, Senate Bill 1796, creates prohibitions and obligations regarding the collection of data on websites or online apps that are primarily used by students in Illinois. Furthermore, the proposal creates data security guidelines that websites and apps must meet in order to protect student information from being hacked or accessed illegally. Additionally, the measure permits the Attorney General’s office to bring action against any individual or organization that hacks information or is negligent in protecting the online data of students.
“We need to work proactively and create strong protections to ensure we keep the online data of students out of the hands of cyber-criminals and data-companies looking to turn a profit by exploiting students’ online finger-print,” Hoffman said. “I would like to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle that worked together to get this important measure passed and I urge the governor put Illinois at the forefront of protecting the data of students by signing this proposal.”
Senate Bill 1796 received bipartisan support and passed the House and Senate. It is awaiting the governor’s signature to become law.
Rep Jay Hoffman
(D-Belleville)
113th District
Springfield Office:
261-S Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-0104
(217) 782-1333 FAX
District Office:
312 S. High St.
Belleville, IL 62220
(618) 416-7407
(618) 416-7409 FAX