Informing Consumers About Smart Devices Act

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4081, the Informing Consumers About Smart Devices Act, introduced by Representative Curtis.

In the past few years, we have seen a tremendous advancement in the development of technologies in consumer products. While many of these technologies make everyday life more convenient, they also have the ability to collect data from their users without their knowledge.

While it may be apparent to users that a laptop has the ability to record conversations, it certainly may not be clear that other devices like televisions, refrigerators, even toasters, have the same capabilities.

This bipartisan legislation would simply require manufacturers of the internet-connected devices that contain a microphone or a camera, and that do not market themselves as such consumer electronics, to disclose to consumers that such a component is part of the device, either pre- or post-sale.

We owe it to our constituents to ensure these types of devices are not recording them without their consent and collecting data when their users are not aware.

I thank Representatives Curtis and Moulton for their bipartisan work on H.R. 4018.

We wish Jerry Godspeed and thank him for the good work. I know sometimes when our staff leaves, it is bittersweet. We hate to see them go but know they are going to different opportunities. The hard work that both your side and our side of the aisle do together, sometimes when we are working on things together, sometimes negotiating together, it is always good work. We are well served. The American people, more than anything, are well served by the people who work here on Capitol Hill. I thank and congratulate Jerry.

Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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