UPDATE 5/3/21

Once again, the WPA failed to become law as the legislature closed on April 25 without the bill passing.

2021 UPDATE:

Senate PASSES SB 5062 and the bill was referred to appropriations.

SUBSTITUTE SENATE BILL 5062

• Provides similar consumer protection as the CCPA, specifically the ability to opt out of processing personal data for targeted advertising
• Would also establish GDPR-like controls over controllers and processors of personal data
• If passed, could go into effect as early as July 2022

 

From the Washington State Legislature:

IN THE HOUSE

Mar 5 First reading, referred to Civil Rights & Judiciary.
Mar 17 Public hearing in the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary at 10:00 AM.
Mar 26 Scheduled for executive session in the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary at 8:00 AM (Subject to change).

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In September 2020, Washington State Senator Reuven Carlyle released a draft Washington Privacy Act 2021.  Some experts predict this bill might have a larger scope and reach than the CCPA, as it could include not-for-profit organizations as well.  If your company does business in the state or collects information from Washington residents, you’ll want to stay informed.

This is Senator Carlyle’s third attempt to pass a privacy act, which has bipartisan support in the Senate.  The Senate and House of Representatives, however, have not been able to come to an agreement regarding proposed amendments.  The 2020 election brought changes in the House, so keep an eye out for updates.