Tech Groups Tell Pompeo to Push for Privacy Shield Ombudsman

The State Department should “swiftly” push for the appointment of an official to be ombudsman for the EU-U.S. Privacy Shield (see 1808090015), tech groups told Secretary Mike Pompeo Monday. ACT|The App Association, BSA|The Software Alliance, Computer & Communications Industry Association, Engine, the Information Technology Industry Council, the Internet Association and the Software & Information Industry Association were among groups urging appointment of an undersecretary for economic growth, energy and the environment. The individual holding that position serves as ombudsman to the Privacy Shield. The Privacy Shield is “indispensable” to the U.S. economy and EU relations, they wrote: “While the duties of the Ombudsperson are currently being carried out, having a senior political appointee in the role is important.” Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans, Environment and Science Judith Garber, set to be the next ambassador to the Republic of Cyprus, is acting ombudsman. A State Department spokesman said the agency hopes to have someone in the position “as soon as possible” but deferred to the White House on when the undersecretary will be named.