Chapter 6: State Comprehensive Privacy Laws
Defining Consumer - Who Is Protected
All five laws protect their state residents, and the term is NOT limited to purchasers. The key distinction: California includes employees in its definition of consumer; the other four exclude individuals acting in a commercial or employment context.
The definition of consumer sets who the law protects. It is not limited to individuals who buy products for personal use - all five states protect their own residents.
California = employees count; the rest exclude them
California includes employees in its definition of consumer. Colorado, Connecticut, Utah, and Virginia exclude individuals "acting in a commercial or employment context." This is one of California's signature broad moves.
Key terms - quick answers
What is “Consumer”?
The individuals protected by a state comprehensive privacy law - defined as state residents, not limited to people buying products or services.