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On September 27, 2025, Maryland Governor John Smith signed into law a groundbreaking internet safety bill aimed at protecting citizens' online privacy and combating cyber threats in the state. The new law, known as the Online Privacy Protection Act (OPPA), imposes strict regulations on internet service providers (ISPs) and tech companies operating in Maryland.Under the OPPA, ISPs are required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting, storing, or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, search queries, and online purchases. Additionally, ISPs must provide users with the option to opt out of targeted advertising and data tracking.Furthermore, the OPPA establishes a new regulatory body, the Maryland Online Privacy Commission, tasked with overseeing compliance with the law and investigating potential violations. The commission will have the authority to levy fines and penalties against companies found to be in breach of the OPPA.Governor Smith emphasized the importance of protecting Maryland residents' digital privacy in the face of increasing cyber threats and data breaches. He stated, "With the passage of the Online Privacy Protection Act, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard our citizens' personal information and ensure that their online activities are kept secure from prying eyes."The OPPA met with widespread support from consumer advocacy groups and privacy advocates, who hailed it as a significant victory for internet users in Maryland. However, some tech industry representatives raised concerns about the potential impact of the law on their operations and argued that it could stifle innovation and competition in the state.Overall, the passage of the Online Privacy Protection Act marks a major milestone in the efforts to strengthen online privacy protections for Maryland residents. With the implementation of this new law, individuals can have greater peace of mind knowing that their personal information is being safeguarded in the digital realm.