Small business owners voice concerns over data privacy legislation

"“A lot of people don't know that we have a free, widely available internet because of advertising,” said Brendan Thomas of Internet for Growth."

"“We have to post ads on social medias and use digital marketing, [search engine optimization], for them to come see us. So that is like the biggest thing for how we get our clients today and how we keep our shop running,” Julius said."

"“Data privacy is a good thing, but there could be unintended consequences from bills that go too far and restrict information that would have been very common for marketing and advertising purposes,” Thomas said."

"In April, House Republicans introduced the SECURE Data Act, a measure that would replace the many individual state laws with one national standard. The goal is to protect consumer information, particularly minors, by changing how businesses collect, store, and use data."

Small business owners say online information protection is important but warn that overly restrictive data privacy bills could harm their ability to market and operate. Entrepreneurs at Capitol Hill focused on data privacy and how it affects advertising-driven internet access. A Madison, Wisconsin gift business described using social media ads and search engine optimization to attract clients and maintain operations. The business model depends on digital marketing, which may be affected as Congress considers two data privacy bills. The SECURE Data Act would replace state laws with one national standard, aiming to protect consumer information, especially minors, by changing data collection, storage, and use. Small businesses want inclusion in the policy process to avoid unintended consequences.

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