In a landmark decision, the Minnesota Legislature has passed a bill aimed at increasing internet privacy protections for residents of the state. The bill, which was approved by a bipartisan majority, is set to significantly impact the way internet service providers (ISPs) collect and use personal data.Under the new law, ISPs will be required to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or selling their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, geolocation information, and app usage. Additionally, ISPs will be prohibited from discriminating against customers who choose not to provide consent for the collection of their data.The legislation also mandates that ISPs must implement robust security measures to protect the data they do collect, in order to prevent breaches and unauthorized access.Supporters of the bill have lauded it as a necessary step to ensure the privacy and security of Minnesotans in an increasingly digital world. They argue that individuals should have control over their own personal information and should be able to trust that it will be safeguarded by the companies they do business with.However, opponents of the legislation have voiced concerns about its potential impact on the business models of ISPs, who rely on the collection and sale of data to support their operations. They worry that the restrictions imposed by the bill will hinder the ability of ISPs to provide competitive services to consumers.Despite these concerns, Governor Elizabeth Johnson has signaled her support for the bill and is expected to sign it into law in the coming days. Once enacted, the new regulations will go into effect within six months, giving ISPs time to adjust their practices to comply with the new requirements.Overall, the passage of this bill represents a significant win for consumer privacy advocates in Minnesota and serves as a model for other states looking to strengthen internet privacy protections for their residents.