WASHINGTON, DC – Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) congratulates Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA-05) on releasing their joint bipartisan federal privacy legislation proposal. “IAB’s over 700 members, including major brands, publishers, agencies, and ad tech firms, are counting on a national data privacy law to replace an increasingly complex patchwork of state laws, raising costs for companies of every size. We believe in stronger protections for consumers and the protection of the benefits of digital advertising and the ad-supported internet for everyone,” said IAB’s Executive Vice President for Public Policy Lartease Tiffith.

“This proposal provides exemptions for small businesses relying on data and digital advertising to compete in today’s economy, and it reflects a majority of state laws requiring opt-out mechanisms for consumers who may not want personalized ads or content,” he said. “However, it’s important that the bill fully preempt state laws to create a uniform national code. A private right of action could create a flood of lawsuits, so it’s important that the language be airtight. Companies should have at least a year to comply before enforcement starts.”

The American Data Privacy Act is an update to the American Data Privacy and Protection Act, which failed to earn Senate support in the previous Congress. This year’s bicameral, bipartisan bill is a major step forward, said Tiffith. “IAB will continue to emphasize digital advertising’s contributions to innovation, jobs, and economic growth, as we help policymakers to adjust key components of the legislation.”

About IAB
The Interactive Advertising Bureau empowers the media and marketing industries to thrive in the digital economy. Its membership comprises more than 700 leading media companies, brands, agencies, and the technology firms responsible for selling, delivering, and optimizing digital ad marketing campaigns. The trade group fields critical research on interactive advertising, while also educating brands, agencies, and the wider business community on the importance of digital marketing. In affiliation with the IAB Tech Lab, IAB develops technical standards and solutions. IAB is committed to professional development and elevating the knowledge, skills, expertise, and diversity of the workforce across the industry. Through the work of its public policy office in Washington, D.C., the trade association advocates for its members and promotes the value of the interactive advertising industry to legislators and policymakers. Founded in 1996, IAB is headquartered in New York City.

IAB Media Contacts
Kate Tumino / Brittany Tibaldi
212-896-1252 / 347-487-6794
[email protected]/ [email protected]