Veteran Data Accountability for Third-party Actors Act; Veteran DATA Act
Summary
The Veteran Data Accountability for Third-party Actors Act, or Veteran DATA Act, aims to protect veterans' sensitive personal information. It prohibits the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from entering contracts that allow contractors to sell or misuse this information. The bill also mandates the inclusion of clauses in VA contracts that prevent the monetization, sale, or misuse of covered information by contractors and subcontractors.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased protection of veterans' personal data within the Department of Veterans Affairs' contracts. It will require the VA to implement stricter oversight and contractual terms regarding data handling. A report to Congress will also be required, detailing the actions taken to comply with the Act.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced privacy for veterans' personal information.
- Increased accountability for contractors handling veteran data.
- Greater transparency through required reporting to Congress.
- Standardized data protection clauses in VA contracts.
- Reduced risk of data breaches and misuse.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in administrative burden for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Possible increased costs for contractors to comply with stricter data protection requirements.
- Potential delays in contract execution due to new compliance procedures.
- Risk of unintended consequences if the definition of 'covered information' is too broad or narrow.
- The effectiveness of the act depends on the VA's ability to enforce the new contract clauses and guidance.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution by promoting the general welfare (Preamble) through protecting sensitive information. It does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights. Congress's authority to legislate in this area is derived from its power to provide for the common defense and general welfare, as well as its specific authority over the military and veterans affairs.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).