Personal Data Privacy and Security Act of 2011
On June 7, 2011, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) introduced S.
1151, entitled the Personal Data Privacy and Security Act of 2011,
co-sponsored by Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY) and Ben Cardin
(D-MD). Senator Leahy previously introduced significant privacy and
security legislation (2005, 2007 and 2009), but each time the bill
did not advance. The bill was referred to the Committee on
Judiciary, which held a hearing, and on November 7, 2011, the
Committee's written report was filed, but it is unclear whether
the Senate will resume consideration in 2012.
If enacted, S. 1151 would establish new federal criminal
offenses for the unauthorized access to personal information. The
bill would also mandate that many federal agencies and private
businesses that collect, maintain, use or disclose personal
information establish adequate privacy and security processes and
programs, and provide notice to individuals regarding breaches
