New data controls may require smart contracts to include kill switches, sparking debate among experts and the Web3 community. In a recent report by CoinDesk, the European Parliament voted on Tuesday (March 14) in favor of the Data Act, a 2022 European Union bill aimed at giving people more control over information generated by smart devices. The vote count was 500 in favor, 23 against, and 110 abstentions.

Pilar del Castillo Vera, the lead lawmaker on the bill, said during the debate that the new rules would empower consumers and companies by allowing them to decide how data from connected products can be used.

However, the Web3 community has expressed concerns over certain provisions in the bill. As per del Castillo Vera’s redraft, smart contracts would be required to have access controls and protect trade secrets. Additionally, they would need to include functions to stop or reset activity. Experts worry that these requirements could undermine the purpose of smart contracts.