More Internet Law news More news in Minnesota Find Internet Law lawyers in Minnesota
On December 11, 2025, the state of Minnesota made significant strides in protecting its residents' online privacy rights by passing a new internet law aimed at regulating how personal data is collected and used by internet service providers (ISPs) and online platforms.The law, known as the Minnesota Personal Data Privacy Act (MPDPA), was unanimously approved by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Jane Smith. The MPDPA is designed to give Minnesota residents more control over their personal data and ensure that companies are transparent about how they collect, use, and share that data.Under the MPDPA, ISPs and online platforms are required to obtain opt-in consent from users before collecting or selling their personal data. Additionally, companies must provide users with the option to access and delete their data, as well as the right to request information about the types of data collected and how it is being used.Furthermore, the MPDPA includes strict penalties for companies that violate the law, with fines of up to $10,000 per violation. The law also empowers the Minnesota Attorney General's Office to enforce compliance and investigate complaints of data misuse.In a statement, Governor Jane Smith emphasized the importance of protecting Minnesotans' online privacy rights in the digital age. She stated, "With the passage of the Minnesota Personal Data Privacy Act, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard our residents' personal information and ensure that their privacy is respected by online companies."The MPDPA is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, giving companies in Minnesota time to adjust their practices and ensure compliance with the new law. Experts believe that other states may follow Minnesota's lead in enacting similar internet privacy legislation to protect their residents' personal data in the future.