For Immediate Release

DES MOINES, Iowa (May 16, 2023) – Recently, Governor Kim Reynolds signed House File 143, a bill relating to ransomware and penalties, into law. This signing marks a significant milestone as it becomes the third priority bill of the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI) to be passed by the state legislature and signed by the Governor.

“On behalf of TAI’s Public Policy Committee and our membership, we applaud the state legislature for their dedication and commitment to passing these critical bills that will greatly benefit all Iowans,” said Brian Waller, President at TAI. “We are grateful for the collaborative and forward-thinking approach taken by our state lawmakers in addressing key issues as we navigate the rapidly evolving technology landscape.”

TAI entered the 2023 legislative session with a clear objective of addressing data privacy protections. We are pleased with the unanimous passage and signing of Senate File 262 into law, making Iowa the sixth state in the U.S. to adopt a comprehensive consumer data privacy law. This important legislation sets standards for companies that collect, control or process personal consumer data. The law applies to companies that either control or process data of at least 100,000 Iowa consumers or control or process data of at least 25,000 Iowa consumers and derive 50% of their revenue from the sale of personal data.

Additionally, TAI applauds the passage of two cybersecurity-related bills during the legislative session. One of them is House File 553, which Governor Reynolds signed into law on May 3rd. This bill demonstrates Iowa’s commitment to encouraging companies to strengthen their cybersecurity measures, ensuring the protection of their operations and customers against cyber-attacks. The legislation introduces an affirmative defense in tort litigation pertaining to data breaches on the condition that companies adhere to the industry-recognized cybersecurity framework requirements outlined in the law. TAI commends the state legislature for taking proactive steps to bolster cybersecurity and create a more secure environment for businesses and consumers alike.

“Governor Reynold’s signature on these cybersecurity bills cements a strong relationship between our state government, TAI, and the 300+ tech organizations in Iowa,” said Aaron Warner, CEO of ProCircular and Chair of TAI’s Public Policy Committee. “Everyone has contributed from a nonpartisan perspective, learned from one another, and now, we’re all even better-positioned to protect Iowa companies and defend Iowans against attackers.” Warner added, “We look forward to future collaboration with the State of Iowa Chief Information Officer – Dr. Behrens, state universities, and private cybersecurity firms to further our impact.”

TAI commends the state legislature for their support and commitment to enhancing data privacy rights and making progress with cybersecurity measures to protect Iowans and Iowa businesses. The passing of these bills exemplifies the effectiveness of public-private collaboration and establishes Iowa as a leader in technology. TAI looks forward to continuing our work with state lawmakers and industry stakeholders to ensure Iowa remains at the forefront of technology innovation.

About the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI)
Founded in 1997, The Technology Association of Iowa is a statewide, member-based organization focused on building and uniting Iowa’s technology community. TAI advances the tech industry through engaging programming, premier events, talent development, driving public policy, and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion to lead Iowa forward.

Get involved at technologyiowa.org and follow us on LinkedIn and on Twitter.

Media Contact:
Nick Donovan
Vice President of Marketing and Communications
Technology Association of Iowa 

Email: nick@technologyiowa.org

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