In a landmark move, the Kentucky state government has passed a new communications law aimed at enhancing data privacy and security for its residents. The law, which was approved on February 20, 2026, comes in response to growing concerns over the protection of personal information in the digital age.One of the key provisions of the new law is the requirement for all telecommunications companies operating in Kentucky to implement robust encryption and security measures to protect user data. This includes safeguarding sensitive information such as phone call records, text messages, and internet browsing history from unauthorized access.In addition, the law mandates that telecommunications companies must obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or sharing any personal data. This means that companies will no longer be able to use customer data for targeted advertising or other purposes without their consent.Furthermore, the new law also includes provisions to strengthen the enforcement of existing anti-spam regulations, making it easier for consumers to report and block unwanted telemarketing calls and spam messages.Kentucky Governor, Sarah Thompson, praised the passage of the law, stating that it represents a significant step towards protecting the privacy and security of Kentucky residents in the digital age. She emphasized the importance of upholding consumer rights and holding telecommunications companies accountable for safeguarding personal information.The Kentucky Communications Law has been met with widespread support from consumer advocacy groups and privacy advocates, who view it as a positive development in the ongoing effort to ensure data privacy and security for all citizens.Overall, the passage of this new communications law marks a significant milestone in Kentucky's commitment to protecting the privacy and security of its residents in an increasingly digitized world. The law is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving telecommunications companies ample time to implement the necessary measures to comply with the new regulations.