State Privacy Tracker:Mississippi

To date, Mississippi does not have a consumer data privacy law in effect. Bills were introduced unsuccessfully for two subsequent years.

Mississippi Consumer Data Privacy Act

Mississippi Sen. Angela Turner-Ford (D), introduced Senate Bill 2330, also known as the Mississippi Consumer Data Privacy Act, in 2022. The bill proposed data subject rights, a “do not sell” provision, a private right of action, and attorney general enforcement. The bill failed.

Sen. Angela Turner-Ford reintroduced the bill in 2023, but it quickly failed again on January 31, 2023.

The act set out to give consumers the rights:

• to request that businesses disclose certain information
• to request that businesses delete personal information collected by businesses
• to instruct businesses to not sell their personal information
• to bring civil actions against businesses that violate this act 

The act required businesses to:

• disclose certain information to consumers
• inform consumers of their right to request that personal information be deleted
• delete personal information collected about consumers upon request

Enforcenment: 

• the attorney general was authorized to bring civil actions against businesses that violate this act
• the bill mandates that the attorney general adopt regulations to further the purposes of the act

Findings of the legislature

The following findings of the legislature led to the proposal of Mississippi’s consumer privacy bill:

• it is an important and substantial state interest to protect the private, personal data in Mississippi
• with the increasing use of technology and data in everyday life, there is a growing amount of private, personal data being shared by consumers with businesses as a part of everyday transactions and online and other activities
• the increasing collection, storage, use, and sale of personal data creates increased risks of identity theft, financial loss, and other misuse of private personal data
• many consumers need to learn, understand, or have appropriate authority over the distribution, use, sale, or disclosure of their data

The Intent of the Initiative

The purpose of the bill was to further Mississippians’ right to privacy by recognizing that Mississippi consumers have the following rights:

1. To know what personal information is being collected about them
2. To know whether their personal information is sold or disclosed and to whom
3. To decline or opt out of the sale of their personal information
4. To access the personal information that has been collected
5. To receive equal service and price, even if they exercise their above rights

What is Consumer Data Privacy?

Consumer data privacy refers to the protection and control of personal information that individuals provide to businesses and organizations when engaging in various online and offline activities. It involves safeguarding sensitive data, such as names, addresses, social security numbers, financial information, and other personally identifiable information (PII).

What is the Importance of Consumer Data Privacy?

Consumer data privacy is important for several reasons:

1. Protection of Personal Information

Privacy laws and regulations aim to protect individuals’ personal information from unauthorized access, misuse, and abuse. By implementing privacy measures, businesses can help prevent data breaches, identity theft, fraud, and other harmful activities that can negatively impact consumers.

2. Trust and Confidence

Demonstrating a commitment to consumer data privacy builds trust and confidence among customers. When individuals feel that their personal information is handled with care and respect, they are more likely to engage in transactions and maintain a positive relationship with businesses.

3. Privacy Rights

Privacy laws recognize and protect individuals’ fundamental rights to privacy and personal autonomy. Respecting consumer data privacy rights fosters a sense of control over one’s personal information, allowing individuals to make informed choices about how their data is collected, used, and shared.

4. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

Many jurisdictions have enacted privacy laws and regulations that impose legal obligations on businesses regarding the protection of consumer data. Compliance with these laws is essential to avoid legal repercussions, financial penalties, and reputational damage.

Overall, consumer data privacy is crucial for maintaining trust, protecting individuals’ rights, and fostering responsible data practices in an increasingly digital world. By prioritizing privacy, businesses can enhance their relationships with customers, mitigate risks, and demonstrate their commitment to ethical and responsible data handling.