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In a landmark move to protect the online privacy of its residents, Massachusetts has passed a comprehensive new internet law that will go into effect on January 1, 2026. The law, known as the Massachusetts Online Privacy Protection Act (MOPPA), aims to give individuals more control over how their personal information is collected, shared, and used by online companies.Under MOPPA, companies that collect personal information from Massachusetts residents will be required to notify users about the types of data being collected, how it will be used, and with whom it will be shared. Companies will also be required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or sharing their personal information. Additionally, users will have the right to access and delete their data, as well as the ability to opt-out of having their data sold to third parties.The passing of MOPPA comes amid growing concerns over online privacy and data security, with many consumers feeling that their personal information is being exploited by companies for profit. Massachusetts Governor Jennifer Johnson, who signed the bill into law, stated that "protecting the privacy of our residents is a critical issue in the digital age, and MOPPA represents a significant step towards giving individuals more control over their personal information online."The new law has received widespread support from privacy advocates and consumer rights groups, who see it as a necessary step towards ensuring that individuals are able to protect their privacy in an increasingly digital world. However, some industry groups have raised concerns about the potential impact of the law on businesses, particularly small businesses that may struggle to comply with the new requirements.Despite these concerns, the Massachusetts legislature has expressed confidence in the law's ability to strike a balance between protecting consumer privacy and enabling businesses to operate efficiently. The state's Attorney General's office will be responsible for enforcing MOPPA, with companies found to be in violation facing fines and other penalties.Overall, the passing of the Massachusetts Online Privacy Protection Act represents a significant victory for online privacy advocates and a major step towards ensuring that individuals have more control over their personal information in the digital age.