"It also proposes punishments for those who distribute software that tries to bypass a computer's security mechanisms, transmits personal information about the user without notification or is used to carry out a federal crime."

Doesn't that cover Microsoft phone home type situations?

When you install Windows you have to agree to allow M$ to collect information before you can use their OS so that would seem to comply with the "opt-in" requirements of the bill.

Time to break out the bats. IT people now have a new weapon !!! Wohoo !

Nope, they'll be exempt. One way or the other.

A note to the needed effect is probably hidden in the EULA anyway.