On December 15, 2025, the state of Minnesota passed a new communications law aimed at regulating digital platforms and addressing the growing concerns surrounding online content moderation and data privacy. The law, which is the first of its kind in the state, comes amidst increasing scrutiny of tech giants and their impact on society.The Minnesota Communications Regulation Act (MCRA) seeks to hold digital platforms accountable for the content that is shared on their platforms and establish guidelines for how they handle user data. Under the new law, companies such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google will be required to implement measures to prevent the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and other harmful content.Additionally, the MCRA mandates that digital platforms obtain explicit consent from users before collecting and sharing their personal data. This provision aims to protect the privacy of individuals and ensure that their information is not being exploited without their knowledge or consent.In a statement, Governor Sarah Jensen praised the new law as a significant step towards creating a safer and more transparent online environment for all Minnesotans. "The MCRA represents our commitment to upholding the values of free speech, privacy, and accountability in the digital age. By holding digital platforms accountable for their actions, we are sending a clear message that the people of Minnesota deserve better."The passage of the MCRA has drawn both praise and criticism from various stakeholders. Tech companies have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the law on their operations, while consumer advocacy groups have lauded the state for taking proactive steps to address online content regulation and data privacy issues.Moving forward, the Minnesota Department of Commerce will be responsible for implementing and enforcing the MCRA, with penalties ranging from fines to suspension of operations for non-compliant companies. The state hopes that the new law will serve as a model for other states seeking to address the challenges posed by digital platforms in the 21st century.