Dear Friends,
Thanks to all who have contacted or visited me this session. If we haven’t had a chance to chat, I wanted to send a short update on what’s happening in St. Paul.
Important Hearing
Yesterday, in the Civil Law and Data Practices Committee, we listened to a presentation from the Minnesota Records Disposition Panel. What we learned was startling. This group is in charge of setting data retention guidelines for governments and agencies. The government must send their data retention policies to the board for approval.
The problem is, there’s no actual policing or oversight of these policies. In fact, nobody even makes sure there is a policy all together. Astounding is the simplest way I can put it. Government keeps large amounts of data, and we have to be sure policies and safeguards are in place to ensure this is stored in conjunction with state law, provides transparent government, and protects Minnesotans personal data.
Commission Appointment
On Tuesday, Speaker Kurt Daudt appointed me to the Legislative Commission on Data Practices. The commission is made up of a bipartisan group of legislators from the House and Senate with a goal “to study issues relating to government data practices and individuals' personal data privacy rights and to review legislation impacting data practices, data security, and personal data privacy.” As a data privacy advocate, I’m honored by this appointment, and look forward to ensuring Minnesotans private data is protected by our state.
Recent Visits
This week I also met with several firefighters from my district. It was enlightening to hear their concerns. We are all thankful for the work they do in our community.
I also met with a nurse from the district to learn about the challenges they face as they care for patients.
Please Contact Me
As always, please stay in touch to share your thoughts on these or any other legislative issues that impact you and your family. You can schedule an appointment to meet with me in my office by calling 651-296-4231, or by emailing me directly at rep.peggy.scott@house.mn.
Have a great weekend!
Peggy