The first Internet-related issue that the Bush administration will likely encounter is online privacy. Capitol Hill watchers expect as many as two dozen online privacy bills to be introduced by the 107th Congress, with hearings anticipated early this year. A consensus is emerging for the passage of a bill that will require companies to notify consumers about their privacy policies and to let them opt out of information gathering. But fights are looming over how notice and choice are defined, how the law will be enforced and whether federal law will pre-empt state laws. Some observers view online privacy as an opportunity for Bush to take a leadership role on a bipartisan issue with much momentum.
Business also recognizes that something needs to be done to close the consumer confidence gap.
Another issue that may come to the forefront quickly is copyright protection on the Internet. The movie, music and book industries are watching a lawsuit against Napster, the Internet file-sharing service. If Napster wins, these industries will likely push for modifications to the 1998 Digital Millennium Copyright Act. The lower court says not. The appellate court hasn't spoken yet.