Possible legislation related to consumer data privacy was a main topic of discussion as Washington Retail directors and staff met with lawmakers last week in Tacoma.

The robust discussion focused on coming to a solution that protects consumers’ personal data while at the same time protecting the important relationship retailers have with their customers. WR is optimistic it can come to an agreement that meets our guiding principles and will serve as a model for other states and the U.S. as a whole. The 2020 Legislative Session begins on January 13.

Those taking part were:

• State Senator Joe Nguyen (D-34) West Seattle, a member of the Environment, Energy, Climate, and Technology Committee
• Representative Zack Hudgins (D-11) Tukwila, Chair of the Innovation, Technology, and Economic Development Committee
• Representative Shelley Kloba (D-1) Kirkland, Vice-Chair, of the Innovation, Technology and Economic Development Committee
• Representative Andrew Barkis, (R-2) Yelm, House Minority Leadership and member of the Consumer Protection and Business Committee
• Sheri Sawyer, Policy Advisor to Governor Jay Inslee.

Similar discussions about data privacy are underway in Congress and several states across the country. In addition, California has a new law taking effect in January. Look for further Washington State updates on this issue after the session begins.