On June 7, 2026, the state of Idaho made headlines as it passed new legislation aimed at regulating internet usage and protecting online privacy for its residents. The bill, titled the Online Privacy Protection Act, was approved by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Sarah Thompson.Under the new law, internet service providers in Idaho will be required to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, geolocation information, and app usage. Additionally, ISPs will be prohibited from selling or disclosing this information to third parties without the customer's consent.The legislation also includes measures to protect children online, requiring ISPs to implement parental controls and age verification mechanisms to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate content. Furthermore, the law establishes a task force to monitor and enforce compliance with the new regulations, with the authority to impose fines for violations.In a statement, Governor Thompson emphasized the importance of safeguarding the privacy and security of Idaho residents in the digital age. "As technology continues to advance, it is crucial that we establish clear guidelines to protect our online data and ensure that individuals have control over their personal information," she said.The Online Privacy Protection Act has received mixed reactions from different stakeholders. Privacy advocates have praised the legislation as a step in the right direction towards establishing comprehensive internet regulations. However, some industry groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact on businesses and the free flow of data.Overall, the passage of the Online Privacy Protection Act signals Idaho's commitment to prioritizing online privacy and security for its residents. The state joins a growing number of jurisdictions across the country that are taking proactive steps to regulate internet usage and protect consumer data in the digital age.