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In a groundbreaking move for internet privacy rights, Delaware lawmakers have passed new legislation aimed at protecting the personal information of state residents online. The bill, known as the Delaware Online Privacy Protection Act (DOPPA), was signed into law by Governor John Doe on Tuesday, August 27, 2025.Under the provisions of DOPPA, internet service providers (ISPs) and websites operating in Delaware are now required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting, using, or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, search queries, location information, and any other data that can be used to identify an individual.Furthermore, the law prohibits ISPs and websites from selling or sharing personal information with third parties without the user's consent. Violations of the law could result in hefty fines for companies found to be in breach of the regulations.The passage of DOPPA comes in response to increasing concerns over online privacy and data security, with many Delaware residents expressing unease over the lack of control they have over their personal information online. Proponents of the new law argue that it will empower users to take back control of their data and make more informed decisions about how it is collected and used by online platforms.Delaware's Attorney General, Jane Smith, praised the new legislation, stating that it "represents a significant step forward in protecting the privacy rights of Delaware residents in the digital age." She also urged other states to follow Delaware's lead and enact similar measures to safeguard the online privacy of their citizens.The passage of DOPPA has been met with support from privacy advocates and consumer rights groups, who have long been calling for stronger regulations to protect users' personal information online. However, some critics argue that the new law could place undue burden on small businesses and hinder innovation in the online space.Overall, the passage of the Delaware Online Privacy Protection Act marks a significant milestone in the ongoing debate over internet privacy rights and sets a strong precedent for other states to follow suit in enacting similar measures to protect the personal information of their residents online.