compliance

FinCEN has kindly extended some filing deadlines for BOI reports, as detailed on their website. Reporting companies created or registered prior to January 1, 2024, have until January 13, 2025, to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN. These companies would have otherwise been required to report by January 1, 2025.

Reporting companies created or registered in the United States on or after September 4, 2024, with a filing deadline between December 3, 2024, and December 23, 2024, also have until January 13, 2025, to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN.

Additionally, reporting companies created or registered in the United States on or after December 3, 2024, and on or before December 23, 2024, have been granted an additional 21 days from their original filing deadline to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN.

Reporting companies that qualify for disaster relief may have extended deadlines beyond January 13, 2025. In such cases, they should adhere to the later deadline.

Reporting companies established or registered in the United States on or after January 1, 2025, have 30 days to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN after receiving actual or public notice of their effective creation or registration.

We had previously advised that, unless you have specific circumstances, you should proceed with the filings despite the temporary injunction. Please allow at least four business days to review and prepare the necessary information for the filing.

Remember that Lloyd & Mousilli has successfully handled hundreds of these filings on behalf of our clients and is available to assist you with your corporate governance compliance requirements.

Scope and Applicability

The Texas Privacy Law aims to protect the privacy rights of individuals residing in Texas. It applies to businesses that collect, process, store, or disclose personal information of Texas residents, regardless of the business's physical location. This broad applicability underscores the commitment of the state to safeguarding personal data and ensures that both local and global organizations must comply with the law.

Consumer Rights and Control

One of the notable aspects of the Texas Privacy Law is the emphasis on consumer rights and control over personal information. The law grants Texas residents the right to know what personal information businesses collect and how it is used, as well as the right to access and delete their personal data. This increased transparency empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their privacy and exercise greater control over their personal information.

Consent and Opt-Out Mechanisms

The law introduces stricter consent requirements for businesses, mandating that they obtain affirmative consent from consumers before collecting or processing their personal data. It also strengthens opt-out mechanisms, enabling individuals to easily withdraw their consent for data processing at any time. These provisions reinforce the principle of consent as a cornerstone of privacy and give individuals more agency in determining how their personal information is managed.

Data Breach Notification

To ensure timely and effective responses to data breaches, the Texas Privacy Law establishes stringent requirements for data breach notification. Businesses are now required to promptly notify affected individuals in the event of a breach that poses a significant risk of harm, allowing them to act appropriately to protect themselves from potential harm resulting from the breach. The law also imposes reporting obligations on businesses, mandating them to inform the Texas Attorney General of certain breaches.

Compliance and Penalties

To enforce compliance, the Texas Privacy Law provides the state Attorney General with authority to investigate and enforce violations. Non-compliant businesses may face substantial penalties, including fines and injunctive relief. Compliance with the law necessitates the implementation of robust privacy practices, including privacy policies, data protection measures, and mechanisms for addressing consumer inquiries and requests.

Conclusion‍

The introduction of the new Texas Privacy Law marks a significant step forward in enhancing privacy rights and data protection for residents of the Lone Star State. By granting individuals greater control over their personal information and imposing obligations on businesses to ensure transparency and accountability, the law aligns Texas with the global privacy movement. Companies operating or having customers in Texas  must now prioritize privacy compliance to maintain consumer trust, avoid penalties, and demonstrate their commitment to protecting personal data.

While the implementation of the Texas Privacy Law may require businesses to adjust their data handling processes, it serves as a reminder that privacy is not just a legal obligation but a fundamental right that deserves respect and protection in the digital age. By embracing these privacy-enhancing measures, organizations can foster a culture of trust, establish a competitive advantage, and contribute to a more privacy-conscious society. If you need a review of your existing privacy compliance, please reach out to Lloyd & Mousilli to help.