January

The Argentina Data Protection Agency has issued DNPDP Disposition 60 - a new regulation on international transfers of personal data.

The Regulation approves two model forms for the international transfer of data - one for use with transfers to a data controller and another for use with transfers to a data processor, for rendering services. The model is based partly on the EU model, if the data controller wishes to use a different model, the controller must file a request for approval with the DPA within 30 days.

The Regulation also lists countries that are considered "adequate" for purposes of cross-border data transfers.

Amendments to Executive Decree No. 37554-JP, which supplement Law No. 8968 on the Protection of Individuals with Regards to the Processing of Personal Data 2011 ("the Data Protection Act"), have introduced new definitions of database, consent, data transfer and other key concepts.

According to Fabian Solis, Associate at Facio & Cañas, the Amendments should clarify issues that raised concerns in the public and private sectors of the Data Protection Act. The Amendments also simplify the procedures for database registration and clarify the role of financial institutions.

The Government has been trying to bring Costa Rican law in line with international standards and has recognized that bigger changes are needed.

The city of Los Angeles has adopted the Fair Chance Initiative Ordinance (Ordinance), which aims to eliminate a barrier to employment for persons who have been convicted of crimes.

The Ordinance, which becomes effective Jan. 22, applies to any private employer in Los Angeles or those doing business in the city that employs 10 or more employees. The term "applicant" is broadly defined as any individual who submits an application or other documentation for employment. The Ordinance, however, does not apply to employers that are required by law to obtain information regarding a conviction of an applicant or those that are prohibited from hiring an applicant that has been convicted of a crime.

The Fair Chance Process gives an applicant the opportunity to provide information regarding the accuracy of their criminal history after a conditional offer has been made.