EPIC Testifies in Support of Strong Privacy Bill in New Mexico

EPIC Deputy Director Caitriona Fitzgerald testified in support of SB 420 in New Mexico this week. The bill includes strong data minimization rules, heightened protections for sensitive data, prohibits data-based discrimination, and includes a private right of action to ensure adequate enforcement of the law.

“At a time when policymakers are concerned about cost-of-living issues for their constituents, the impact of mass data collection and abuse on those costs cannot be ignored,” EPIC told the Committee.

EPIC laid out the cost-of-living related harms, including increased insurance premiums and pricing on consumer goods.

“Small businesses are harmed by these systems as well,” EPIC continued. “For years, they’ve been told that success hinges on pouring money into online behavioral advertising, controlled by a handful of tech giants. They enter bidding wars against corporate behemoths. This isn’t a level playing field. It’s a digital black hole—swallowing resources and crushing entrepreneurial spirit, all to facilitate targeted advertising that is of dubious efficacy.”