# Plain Language Summary: Online Privacy Act of 2021

This bill is designed to give people more control over their personal information when they're online. Right now, websites and apps collect huge amounts of data about you—what you search for, what you buy, where you go, who you talk to—often without you really knowing it or having much say in the matter. This bill would require companies to be more transparent about what data they're collecting and give you the power to decide whether they can use it.

Under this law, companies would have to tell you clearly and upfront what personal information they're gathering and exactly how they plan to use it. More importantly, you'd have the right to say "no"—you could tell a company not to collect your data or not to sell it to other companies. If a company wants to use your information in new ways beyond what you originally agreed to, they'd have to ask your permission first. The bill also creates rules about how companies can share your data with third parties, making it harder for your information to be sold around without your knowledge.

The law would apply to most online businesses and tech companies, though there are some exceptions for very small businesses and certain types of information. If companies break these rules, they could face penalties and fines. The bill also gives you the ability to sue companies that violate your privacy rights, which is a big deal because it means you're not just relying on government agencies to enforce the rules. Additionally, the law includes special protections for children's data, recognizing that kids need extra safeguards online.

Online Privacy Act of 2021

Eshoo, Anna G.

Online Privacy Act of 2021 This bill establishes certain online privacy rights for personal information (including contents of communications) and certain requirements for data processors, service providers, and third parties. The bill also establishes the Digital Privacy Agency.