City Council Passes Bill to Protect New Yorker’s Private Information

A new bill improving the privacy and protection of New Yorkers’ personal data when collected by the city was passed by the city council yesterday, November 16.

The bill, Intro 1588-A, was introduced by 45th District Councilmember Jumaane Williams and requires city employees to protect identifying information by limiting collection, retention and disclosure of personal data.

Additionally, a new privacy officer at each city agency will now review the practices surrounding personal data collection to make sure it is safeguarded against accidental dissemination.

“For years, it has become increasingly clear that the personal data of citizens needs to be emphatically and unequivocally protected.” said Councilmember Williams said in a statement.

“It’s important that we recognize those bad actors can come from anywhere, and these bills provide a safeguard against New Yorker’s private data being accessed and utilized to unjust ends,” he continued.

Some examples of personal or identifying data include contact information, religion, sexual orientation or immigration status.

“The establishment of a Chief Privacy Officer and a complete review of City agency data practices are the right steps to ensure sensitive, personal information is either not collected, not retained, or used only when absolutely necessary,” said Councilmember Carlos Menchaca, chair of the Committee on Immigration.

Williams has advocated for immigrants rights during his tenure as a city councilmember and will hold a march this weekend in support of Temporary Protection Status for immigrants.