On February 21, 2026, Governor Laura Kelly of Kansas signed a new internet law aimed at protecting the privacy of residents and combating cybercrime in the state. The law, known as the Kansas Internet Privacy and Security Act, comes in response to the increasing frequency of cybersecurity threats and breaches in both the public and private sectors.Under the new law, internet service providers (ISPs) operating in Kansas are required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or selling their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, app usage, and location data. ISPs must also implement robust security measures to safeguard this data from unauthorized access or disclosure.Additionally, the Kansas Internet Privacy and Security Act empowers the state attorney general to investigate and prosecute instances of cybercrime, including hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. The law includes provisions for increased penalties for offenders found guilty of these offenses, reflecting the seriousness with which Kansas takes the protection of its residents' digital information.Governor Kelly emphasized the importance of the new law in a statement following its signing, stating that "the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, and we must ensure that Kansans can trust that their online activities are secure and their privacy is respected." She commended the bipartisan effort that went into crafting the legislation and expressed confidence that it would help make Kansas a safer and more secure digital environment for all residents.The Kansas Internet Privacy and Security Act is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving ISPs time to adjust their practices and systems to comply with the new regulations. The state government has also announced plans to launch a public awareness campaign to inform Kansans about their rights under the law and provide guidance on safeguarding their online privacy.Overall, the introduction of the Kansas Internet Privacy and Security Act represents a significant step forward in protecting residents from cyber threats and ensuring the integrity of the digital ecosystem in the state. With the support of lawmakers, law enforcement agencies, and the public, Kansas is taking proactive measures to defend against the growing challenges of the digital age.