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In a landmark decision, the state of Minnesota has passed a comprehensive internet privacy law aimed at protecting consumers' personal data online. The new law, which was signed by Governor Lisa Hanson on Thursday, mandates that internet service providers (ISPs) obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or selling their personal information.Under the terms of the Minnesota Internet Privacy Act, ISPs are required to inform customers of the types of personal data they collect, how it is used, and with whom it is shared. Customers must then have the option to opt out of having their data collected or shared with third parties.Additionally, the law prohibits ISPs from selling customers' personal information to advertisers without their consent. Violations of the law can result in hefty fines for ISPs, with penalties ranging from $100,000 to $1 million per violation.Governor Hanson hailed the new law as a major victory for consumer privacy rights in the digital age. "With the proliferation of online services and the increasing amount of personal data being collected, it is more important than ever to protect consumers' privacy," she said in a statement. "This law will give Minnesotans greater control over their personal information and ensure that their data is not being exploited for profit without their knowledge."The Minnesota Internet Privacy Act is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, making Minnesota one of the first states in the nation to enact such comprehensive internet privacy legislation. Proponents of the law believe that it will serve as a model for other states looking to strengthen consumer privacy protections in the digital age.However, some critics have raised concerns about the potential impact of the law on ISPs and the internet economy as a whole. They argue that the stringent regulations could stifle innovation and lead to higher costs for consumers.Despite these concerns, the passage of the Minnesota Internet Privacy Act marks a major milestone in the ongoing debate over internet privacy and consumer rights. As technology continues to evolve, it is clear that states like Minnesota are taking proactive steps to ensure that consumers are protected in the digital realm.