May 4, 2020
Public consultation on the Personal Information Protection Act begins today
VICTORIA – The Legislative Assembly has appointed an all-party special committee to seek input from British Columbians on the effectiveness of the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). The act governs how private sector organizations collect, use, and disclose personal information. It also requires organizations to protect and secure personal information against unauthorized use or disclosure, and grants individuals the right to access their own personal information.
The Legislative Assembly appointed the special committee on February 18, 2020 to conduct the review in accordance with section 59 of the act.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought considerable change to how many of us work and communicate,” said Rachna Singh, committee chair. “Our increased reliance on technology makes it an especially appropriate time to review this legislation.”
Dan Ashton, deputy chair, added, “There have been significant developments, including new innovations in digital technology and artificial intelligence, since the last review of the act in 2014. We would like to hear from British Columbians how PIPA could be improved.”
Interested organizations and individuals can participate in the consultation by presenting via tele/videoconference at a public hearing in June, or by making a written, audio or video submission. The deadline to register for a public hearing is Friday, May 29 at 5:00 p.m. and the deadline for all input is Friday, August 14, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
The special committee will consider all input and make recommendations to the Legislative Assembly in a report to be released by February 2021.
To participate in the consultation or to find out more about the work of the special committee, please visit its website: www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/pipa
The members of the committee are:
Rachna Singh, MLA, Surrey-Green Timbers, and chair; Dan Ashton, MLA, Penticton, and deputy chair;
Mable Elmore, MLA, Vancouver-Kensington;
Adam Olsen, MLA, Saanich North and the Islands; and Steve Thomson, MLA, Kelowna-Mission.
For further information:
Susan Sourial
Clerk Assistant, Committees and Interparliamentary Relations Room 224, Parliament Buildings Victoria, BC V8V 1X4
250 356-0823
Toll Free in BC 1 877-428-8337 pipacommittee@leg.bc.ca
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