Online Privacy Act of 2026

Progress

Timeline

• Mar 19Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on the Judiciary, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Summary

**What it does:** This bill would create new privacy rights for individuals and establish a federal "Digital Privacy Agency" to enforce them. It would set rules for how companies and organizations handle personal information. **Who it affects:** - All U.S. citizens would gain new privacy rights over their personal data - Companies that collect, store, or use personal information would face new requirements - A new federal agency would be created with enforcement powers **What would change:** - Individuals would have more control over their personal information (likely including rights to access, correct, or delete their data) - Companies would need to follow specific privacy and security standards when handling personal data - There would be federal oversight and enforcement of these privacy rules through the new agency - Violations could result in penalties or other enforcement actions The bill is currently in congressional committee, so these changes would only take effect if it passes both chambers of Congress and is signed into law.

How This Affects You