Alabama has not enacted a comprehensive consumer privacy law. Businesses are subject to federal privacy laws and sector-specific Alabama regulations.
Alabama Privacy & Accessibility Laws
Alabama does not have a comprehensive consumer privacy law as of 2024. However, Alabama has enacted sector-specific privacy protections and requires state government websites to meet accessibility standards. Businesses operating in Alabama must comply with federal requirements and industry-specific state regulations.
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Privacy Law Status
No Comprehensive Law
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Accessibility Requirements
State Government Websites
Alabama state agencies must ensure their websites are accessible to individuals with disabilities under ADA Title II and state IT policies.
Alabama Privacy Regulations
While Alabama lacks a comprehensive privacy law, the state has enacted several sector-specific privacy protections:
Key Alabama Privacy Laws
- Alabama Data Breach Notification Act (2018): Requires businesses to notify Alabama residents of data breaches involving personal information within 45 days
- Alabama Consumer Identity Protection Act: Prohibits the sale or disclosure of Social Security numbers in certain circumstances
- Student Data Privacy Act: Protects student data collected by educational technology companies
- Insurance Data Security Law: Requires insurance companies to implement data security programs
Data Breach Notification Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Covered Entities | Any person or entity that acquires or uses sensitive personally identifying information |
| Notification Timeline | Within 45 days of breach determination |
| AG Notification | Required if breach affects more than 1,000 Alabama residents |
| Covered Data | Name plus SSN, driver's license, financial account, medical information, or username/password |
| Penalties | Up to $5,000 per day for violations (max $500,000) |
Accessibility Requirements
Alabama government agencies must ensure digital accessibility for all residents:
State Government Obligations
- Alabama state agencies must comply with ADA Title II for all public-facing digital content
- The Alabama Office of Information Technology provides accessibility guidance
- State websites should follow WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines
- Public educational institutions must ensure accessible digital learning materials
- State contractors providing digital services must meet accessibility requirements
Private Sector Considerations
- Businesses with physical locations in Alabama are subject to ADA Title III
- Website accessibility claims can be brought under federal ADA
- Healthcare providers must ensure accessible patient portals
- Financial institutions must provide accessible online banking services
Enforcement
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Privacy Enforcement
- Alabama Attorney General - Primary enforcement authority for data breach notification violations
- Alabama Department of Insurance - Insurance data security enforcement
- Consumer Protection Division - Investigates consumer complaints
Contact:
Office of the Attorney General
501 Washington Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 242-7300
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Accessibility Enforcement
- U.S. Department of Justice - ADA Title II and III enforcement
- Office for Civil Rights (HHS) - Healthcare accessibility
- Private litigation - Individuals can bring ADA claims in federal court
Contact:
Alabama Disability Advocacy Program
(205) 348-4928
Toll-free: (800) 826-1675
Business Obligations
| Obligation | Description |
|---|---|
| Data Security | Implement reasonable security measures to protect personal information |
| Breach Notification | Notify affected individuals within 45 days of discovering a breach |
| SSN Protection | Restrict use and disclosure of Social Security numbers |
| Student Data | EdTech companies must follow Student Data Privacy Act requirements |
| Insurance Data | Insurance licensees must maintain comprehensive data security programs |
Consumer Rights
Alabama residents have limited privacy rights compared to states with comprehensive privacy laws:
- Data Breach Notification: Right to be notified of security breaches affecting personal information
- SSN Protection: Right to protection against unauthorized disclosure of Social Security numbers
- Student Data: Parents and students have rights regarding educational data
- Credit Freeze: Right to place security freezes on credit reports
- Medical Privacy: Rights under HIPAA for health information
Future Legislation
Alabama legislators have introduced comprehensive privacy bills in recent sessions. While none have passed as of 2024, businesses should monitor legislative developments and prepare for potential future requirements.
Related Resources
- US Privacy Laws Overview
- ADA Title II Requirements
- ADA Title III for Businesses
- All State Laws
- Privacy Compliance Guide
- Report a Violation
Need Help with Alabama Compliance?
While Alabama lacks a comprehensive privacy law, businesses must still comply with sector-specific requirements and federal accessibility standards. Contact our experts for guidance on meeting your obligations.