In a landmark decision, the Maine Legislature has passed a new internet privacy law aimed at protecting citizens' online data from being exploited by tech companies and malicious actors. The bill, known as the Online Privacy Act of 2026, was introduced in response to growing concerns about digital privacy and the increasing amount of personal information being collected and sold online.Under the new law, internet service providers and websites operating in Maine will be required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or sharing their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, search queries, and any other online activity that could be used to track or identify individuals.In addition to obtaining consent, companies will also be required to provide users with clear and easily accessible information about how their data is being used and shared. Users will have the right to request access to their personal information, as well as the ability to opt-out of any data collection or sharing practices they do not agree with.The Online Privacy Act of 2026 also includes strict penalties for companies found to be in violation of the law. Fines for non-compliance can range from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the violation and the number of individuals affected.Supporters of the new law laud it as a critical step in safeguarding citizens' digital privacy rights and holding tech companies accountable for their data practices. They believe that by giving users more control over their personal information, the law will help restore trust in the online ecosystem and prevent the widespread misuse of data for profit or harm.However, critics argue that the law could place undue burden on businesses and stifle innovation by imposing strict regulations on data collection and sharing practices. They also raise concerns about the potential for increased costs and complexities associated with compliance, which could ultimately impact consumers and the overall economy.Despite the controversy, the Online Privacy Act of 2026 is set to go into effect in Maine starting next year. Lawmakers hope that the legislation will serve as a model for other states looking to strengthen their online privacy protections and create a more secure and transparent digital environment for all.