CONCEPT DRAFT

SUMMARY

This bill is a concept draft pursuant to Joint Rule 208.

This bill is a recommendation of the Blue Ribbon Commission to Establish a Comprehensive Internet Policy. It proposes that a person or persons within State Government protect the privacy of personal data about the people of Maine. The person would not have regulatory authority, but would be charged with the following duties:

1. To conduct research and studies, gather facts and evaluate procedures regarding the treatment of personal data by public and private entities;

2. To investigate complaints about information confidentiality, make recommendations for policy, rule and legislative changes, where appropriate, and make referrals to, and cooperate with, enforcement entities;

3. To advise, consult and assist the legislative and executive branches of government on development of policies and procedures related to confidential personal data;

4. To coordinate communication and cooperation among components of State Government; and

5. To educate the public about the status of personal data and how to protect privacy.

The person performing this function must be in a position that, to the greatest extent possible, is not subject to political or economic pressure. This person would have authority to maintain the confidentiality of information in that person's possession.