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Protecting Car Data: No More Warrantless Digital Searches

This new law requires law enforcement to obtain a court warrant before accessing digital data from your car. It aims to protect citizens' privacy by limiting the ability to search vehicle information without proper authorization. The act defines what data is protected and when law enforcement can access it without a warrant, such as in emergencies.
Key points
Warrant Required: Law enforcement must get a court warrant to access data from your car.
Your Consent: You can voluntarily agree to data access, but consent must be clear and informed.
Exceptions to Warrant: Access without a warrant is allowed in life-threatening emergencies or for event data recorder (black box) data for vehicle safety purposes.
Privacy Protection: Illegally obtained data cannot be used as evidence in court.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_3231
Sponsor: Sen. Wyden, Ron [D-OR]
Process start date: 2021-11-18
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Closing the Warrantless Digital Car Search Loophole Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_3231.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-11-18.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Warrant Required: Law enforcement must get a court warrant to access data from your car.
  • Your Consent: You can voluntarily agree to data access, but consent must be clear and informed.
  • Exceptions to Warrant: Access without a warrant is allowed in life-threatening emergencies or for event data recorder (black box) data for vehicle safety purposes.
  • Privacy Protection: Illegally obtained data cannot be used as evidence in court.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Wyden, Ron [D-OR].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Transport