More Communications Law news More news in Maryland Find Communications Law lawyers in Maryland
On October 3, 2025, Maryland Governor John Smith signed into law a new communications bill aimed at protecting consumer privacy in the digital age. The Maryland Communications Privacy Act, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in the state legislature, establishes strict guidelines for how telecommunications companies can collect, store, and share customer data.The law, which is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, requires telecommunications companies to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting any personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, location information, and app usage. Companies must also provide customers with the option to opt out of data collection entirely.In addition, the Maryland Communications Privacy Act prohibits telecommunications companies from selling or sharing customer data with third parties without consent. Violations of the law can result in hefty fines and other penalties for companies found to be in breach.Governor Smith praised the new law as a significant step towards safeguarding consumer privacy in an increasingly connected world. "With the rise of digital technology, it's more important than ever that we protect the personal information of Maryland residents," he said in a statement. "This law sets a clear standard for telecommunications companies to follow and ensures that our citizens have control over their own data."The Maryland Communications Privacy Act was praised by privacy advocates and consumer rights groups, who have long advocated for stronger protections against data collection and sharing by telecommunications companies. The law is seen as a landmark piece of legislation that could serve as a model for other states looking to enhance consumer privacy protections.In response to the new law, telecommunications companies operating in Maryland have pledged to comply with its requirements and work towards ensuring the privacy and security of customer data. Some companies have even announced plans to implement additional privacy measures beyond what is required by law.Overall, the passage of the Maryland Communications Privacy Act represents a significant win for consumer privacy rights in the state and sets a high standard for telecommunications companies to follow in the digital age. It is expected to have a lasting impact on how customer data is collected and used in Maryland and beyond.