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S28119th CongressWALLET

Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act

Sponsored By: Senator Cruz, Ted [R-TX]

In Committee

Summary

Requires pre-purchase disclosure when internet-connected consumer devices include a camera or microphone. This bill would require manufacturers to give a clear, conspicuous notice to buyers before sale and assigns enforcement to the Federal Trade Commission with a guidance deadline of 180 days.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Federal Trade Commission enforcement and guidance

If enacted, the FTC could enforce the disclosure rule as an unfair or deceptive practice and use the same powers and penalties as under the FTC Act. The FTC must issue guidance to help manufacturers within 180 days of enactment. Guidance would not create legal rights or bind the FTC. Enforcement actions must allege a specific statutory violation, and the FTC generally cannot rely only on guidance to bring cases. Manufacturers may petition for tailored guidance.

Manufacturers must disclose cameras and mics

If enacted, manufacturers of covered devices would have to clearly and conspicuously disclose before purchase whether a device contains a camera or a microphone. This disclosure requirement would apply only to covered devices as defined by the bill. It would apply to devices manufactured after 180 days from when the FTC issues guidance and would not apply to devices made or sold before that date.

Which devices require camera and mic disclosure

If enacted, the bill would define which internet-connected consumer products must disclose if they include a camera or microphone. It would exclude phones, laptops, and tablets, devices you would reasonably expect to have a camera or mic, devices sold as cameras or telecom gear, and certain devices covered by the Communications Act (sections 255, 716, 718, and 303(aa) and (bb)). The rule would apply to devices made after 180 days from when the FTC issues guidance.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Cruz, Ted [R-TX]

TX • R

Cosponsors

  • Sen. Cantwell, Maria [D-WA]

    WA • D

    Sponsored 1/7/2025

  • Sen. Curtis, John R. [R-UT]

    UT • R

    Sponsored 1/7/2025

  • Sen. Warnock, Raphael G. [D-GA]

    GA • D

    Sponsored 3/23/2026

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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