CHICAGO, Ill. -- Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill into law that protects small businesses and consumer privacy.Â
The bill "SB 2979" works to reform the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). This act worked to guard consumers' data regarding their biology. Most digital copies of consumer's eyes scans, data, fingerprints etc. were covered in the act. However, officials with the Illinois Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (IL-CALA) says the act had no protection over small businesses using other forms of this data.Â
The CALA said the new technology led to a significant number of predatory lawsuits that about took all of these businesses' money. A suit involving White Castle reportedly led to a $17 billion lawsuit, leading to the rewording of the BIPA.Â
"This reform provides much-needed relief to employers while continuing to protect the privacy of individuals," said CALA Executive Director Phil Melin. "Under the previous provisions, small business owners faced the constant risk of annihilative lawsuit, threatening their survival. Governor Pritzker's signing of SB 2979 into law represents a pivotal first step toward creating a fairer legal landscape for Illinois businesses."
"By signing SB 2979, Pritzker has made a significant impact in safeguarding both the rights of worekers and the sustainability of Illinois businesses," continued Melin.Â
According to a release from the CALA, officials say the new law will bring in more revenue.Â
"The future of Illinois' business landscape looks brighter, and we urge continued efforts to protect and support both our economy and our citizens." 0
