This week, WR joined a coalition of industry groups in strong opposition to HB 1671, a deeply flawed privacy bill that imposes costly, contradictory, and unworkable compliance mandates – harming retailers, small businesses, and consumers alike.
The bill recently had a public hearing in the House Committee on Technology, Economic Development, & Veterans.
- Unfairly Penalizing Washington Businesses – HB 1671 punishes retailers that maintain IT, website, and data operations in Washington by forcing them to comply with the law for all U.S. consumers—not just Washington residents.
The result? More jobs leaving Washington as retailers move operations elsewhere to avoid excessive compliance costs and unfair data requirements.
- A False Promise on First-Party Data – While the bill claims to allow first-party data collection for advertising and customer engagement, it simultaneously blocks the ability to collect the data needed to do so. Even if consumers opt in, businesses will still face restrictions that prevent them from offering personalized shopping, loyalty rewards, and discounts.
Retailers depend on first-party data to improve the customer shopping experience. This bill strips them of that ability, making it more difficult to best serve Washingtonians.
- Hurting Small Businesses & Startups – Washington’s small businesses and startups will be hit hardest by vague and costly requirements. Digital tools, online advertising, and customer data are essential for emerging businesses to compete with larger companies. By restricting these capabilities, the bill stifles growth and innovation.
While this may not be the bill’s intent, the economic impact on small businesses will be severe.
- A Lose-Lose for Washington
- Retailers face job losses, higher costs, and relocation pressures.
- Small businesses lose the ability to compete.
- Consumers lose access to personalized experiences, discounts, and convenience.
- Washington’s economy suffers as jobs and innovation move elsewhere.
HB 1671 is a serious threat to Washington’s economic future. WR will continue urging lawmakers to reject this bill and instead work collaboratively with retailers and the broader business community to develop a balanced, effective privacy framework that protects consumers without crippling businesses.
TAKE ACTION NOW – SIGN IN “CON”
