https://dailycaller.com/2023/05/04/michael-cloud-yoda-act-big-tech/

By Henry Rodgers – The Daily Caller

Republican Texas Rep. Michael Cloud introduced legislation Thursday that would give users control of their own data by prohibiting companies from collecting data without user consent and requiring companies to provide updates to users on what data is being collected and where it is being shared.

The Daily Caller first obtained the legislation, which is titled “You Own the Data Act” or the YODA Act. The bill would also create a private right of action for individuals to bring a suit against companies that violate the provisions of the bill, which would allow individuals to seek relief from companies that earn an annual gross revenue of $50 million or more.

“Our government exists to protect individual rights to life, liberty, and property. As such it is crucial that we protect Americans from data collection from third parties,” Cloud told the Caller before introducing the legislation. “Citizens should have reasonable access to technologies without abdicating their right to privacy or anonymity. Big tech must be held accountable.”

The bill also would make it so, companies would be prohibited from “collecting, retaining, or transferring data” from individuals under 18 years old without consent from a parent or guardian. 

Republican North Carolina Rep. Dan Bishop joined Cloud as a cosponsor of the legislation.