On February 18, 2026, Alaska Governor Claire Johnston signed into law a new communications bill aimed at protecting consumer data privacy in the state. The bill, officially known as the Alaska Communications Privacy Act, addresses concerns about the growing issue of data breaches and unauthorized access to personal information.The Alaska Communications Privacy Act requires telecommunication companies, internet service providers, and other communication service providers to obtain explicit consent from consumers before collecting, using, or sharing their personal data. The law also mandates that these companies must take reasonable measures to secure the information they collect and notify consumers in the event of a data breach.Additionally, the new law includes provisions for the protection of children's online privacy. It requires companies to obtain parental consent before collecting any personal information from children under the age of 13 and prohibits the targeting of minors with online advertisements for products or services deemed inappropriate for their age group.Governor Johnston emphasized the importance of safeguarding consumer data in the digital age, stating, "As technology continues to advance, so too must our laws and regulations to protect the privacy rights of Alaskans. This new communications law sets a standard for data protection and privacy that other states should follow."The Alaska Communications Privacy Act has received praise from consumer advocacy groups and privacy rights organizations for its comprehensive approach to data privacy. However, some telecommunications companies have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the new regulations on their business operations.Despite the challenges, Governor Johnston remains confident that the Alaska Communications Privacy Act will benefit consumers in the long run. "By putting the privacy of Alaskans first, we can create a safer and more secure digital environment for all residents of our state," she stated.The Alaska Communications Privacy Act is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving companies ample time to adjust their practices and ensure compliance with the new regulations. With the implementation of this landmark legislation, Alaska joins a growing number of states taking proactive steps to protect consumer data privacy in the digital age.