This week, the Vermont Senate unanimously passed a comprehensive data privacy bill, signaling strong bipartisan support for the protection of Vermonters’ personal data and Vermont’s economy. The bill, which was supported by Vermont business organizations, nonprofits, and medical providers, aligns with the privacy framework passed in other New England states and outlined in Governor Scott’s veto last year. By passing the bill, the Senate has sent a clear message: Vermonters deserve strong privacy protections, and Senate lawmakers are listening to the concerns of trusted local organizations.

During the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affair’s review of the bill, Senate Majority Leader Kesha Ram Hinsdale expressed the Senate’s commitment to the bill, stating, “I will say on the record, if you touch a hair on this bill’s head it may not garner the votes in the Senate to pass.” This statement underscores the Senate’s resolve to keep the bill intact as it moves to the House. Despite external pressures from out-of-state interests trying to push Vermont toward more extreme policies, the Senate has prioritized a solution that balances privacy rights with the needs of Vermont’s economy.

The bill was reported by Bennington Senator Rob Plunkett, a meaningful moment for the businesses in his district, which have been a prominent voice on this issue. This action by the Senate highlights the importance of creating a privacy framework that protects local businesses from unnecessary legal risks. As the bill moves to the House, the Vermont Chamber hopes to see the same commitment to a regionally compatible approach that supports Vermont’s economy while safeguarding privacy. We thank the Senate for their thoughtful, bipartisan leadership and urge the House to follow this show of leadership.