Are you suggesting that not inconveniencing developers is more important than a right to privacy? I'd have to disagree with you if this is the case.

I've worked both for companies that fall under extra scrutiny by government due to market position and for companies that deal with data that has strict retention limits. Yes, it increases complexity, but the laws that seek to protect people's privacy are far more important than any inconvenience to companies.

(And yes: in both cases there were regular audits and any lack of compliance had very real consequences)