Floor Situation

H.Res. 31 is expected to be considered on the floor of the House under a motion to suspend the rules. This resolution was introduced by Representative David Price (D-NC) on January 7, 2009.

Bill Summary

H.Res. 31 resolves that the House of Representatives

• Supports the designation of a “National Data Privacy Day”;
• Encourages State and local governments to observe the day with appropriate activities that promote awareness of data privacy;
• Encourages privacy professionals and educators to discuss data privacy and protection issues with teens in high schools across the United States; and
• Encourages individuals across the Nation to be aware of data privacy concerns and to take steps to protect their personal information online.

Background

On January 28, 2009, the United States, Canada, and 27 European countries are scheduled to celebrate Data Privacy Day together for the second time. National Data Privacy Day is designed to raise awareness and generate discussion about data privacy practices and rights.

One of the goals of National Data Privacy Day is the promotion of privacy awareness and education among teens across the United States. National Data Privacy Day also aims to further international collaboration and cooperation around privacy issues.

Data privacy refers to the collection and dissemination of data, technology, the public expectation of privacy, and related legal issues. Data privacy is especially important whenever so-called "personally identifiable information" is gathered. Personally identifiable information often involves healthcare records, financial transactions, and criminal proceedings.