Cape News

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Richard Blumenthal have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at safeguarding consumer data rights and holding major technology companies accountable for using copyrighted works without permission. This legislation follows a recent Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing where Senator Hawley highlighted concerns about AI companies' involvement in what he described as "the largest intellectual property theft in American history."

Senator Hawley stated, "AI companies are robbing the American people blind while leaving artists, writers, and other creators with zero recourse. It’s time for Congress to give the American worker their day in court to protect their personal data and creative works."

Senator Blumenthal added, "This bill embodies a bipartisan consensus that AI safeguards are urgent—because the technology is moving at accelerating speed, and so are dangers to privacy. Enforceable rules can put consumers back in control of their data, and help bar abuses."

The proposed AI Accountability and Personal Data Protection Act aims to prevent AI companies from using copyrighted materials without permission, establish a federal tort for data misuse, require transparency regarding third-party access to personal data, and ensure robust legal remedies.

Both senators have previously collaborated on initiatives to empower users against Big Tech's influence.