In a move aimed at bolstering consumer privacy protections in the digital age, Maine Governor Janet Mills signed a new internet privacy law on July 10, 2025. The law, known as the Maine Consumer Internet Privacy Act, aims to give residents greater control over their personal information and how it is collected, used, and shared by online companies.Under the new law, internet service providers (ISPs) in Maine are required to obtain explicit consent from consumers before collecting or selling their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, app usage, and geolocation data. ISPs must also implement reasonable security measures to protect this data from unauthorized access or disclosure.Governor Mills praised the new law as a crucial step in ensuring that Mainers' privacy rights are protected in the digital age. "In an era where our personal information is constantly being collected and monetized by online companies, it is more important than ever to empower consumers with greater control over their data," said Mills in a statement.The Maine Consumer Internet Privacy Act also includes provisions for enforcement and penalties for violations. The law empowers the Maine Attorney General to investigate complaints of privacy violations and take legal action against companies found to be in violation of the law. Violators may face fines of up to $5,000 per violation.Consumer advocacy groups and privacy advocates have hailed the law as a landmark piece of legislation that sets a new standard for internet privacy protections at the state level. They believe that the Maine Consumer Internet Privacy Act will serve as a model for other states looking to strengthen their own privacy laws.However, the law has faced criticism from industry groups and some ISPs, who argue that it could stifle innovation and hinder their ability to provide personalized services to consumers. They have raised concerns that the new regulations could lead to increased costs for consumers and hinder the growth of online businesses in Maine.Despite these criticisms, Governor Mills and supporters of the law remain steadfast in their belief that stronger privacy protections are necessary to safeguard consumers' personal information in an increasingly interconnected world. The Maine Consumer Internet Privacy Act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving ISPs time to adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.