Commerce Seeks Comment on Privacy Law, Creates Task Force

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2010 – The Commerce Department is seeking public comment on the impact of privacy laws in the United States and around the world to determine if current laws serve consumer interests and democracy.

It also this week announced the formation of an Internet Policy Task Force to identify public policy and operational issues impacting the private sector’s ability to best achieve economic growth and job creation through the Internet.

"Because of the vital role the Internet plays in driving innovation throughout the economy, the department has made it a top priority to ensure that the Internet remains open for innovation while promoting an environment respectful of individual privacy expectations,” Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said.

The Internet Policy Task Force plans to explore privacy frameworks and ways to address the challenges of the new Internet economy and society “in a manner that preserves and enhances personal privacy protection,” according to the department.

The group is comprised of staff members from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, International Trade Administration, National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Patent and Trademark Office, and will be coordinated through the Commerce Department's Office of Policy and Strategic Planning, which reports to the secretary.

In addition to privacy and innovation, the task force will examine cyber security, online copyright protection and international barriers to moving data around the globe, and the ability of entrepreneurs and small- and medium-sized businesses to expand their operations via the Internet.