In a unanimous decision on March 30, 2026, Missouri legislators passed a new internet law aimed at protecting online privacy for residents of the state. The law, known as the Missouri Online Privacy Protection Act (MOPPA), will require websites and online services to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting their personal information.Under the new law, website operators must clearly disclose what information they are collecting from users, how it will be used, and whether it will be shared with third parties. Users will also have the right to opt out of having their information collected or shared, and websites must provide an easy way for users to do so.Missouri Governor Sarah Thompson applauded the passage of MOPPA, stating, "In an age where our personal information is constantly being collected and shared online, it is crucial that we take steps to protect the privacy of our residents. This law will give Missourians greater control over their personal information and ensure that their online data is handled responsibly."The passage of MOPPA comes at a time when concerns over online privacy and data security are at an all-time high. With the rise of data breaches and the widespread collection of personal information by tech companies, many consumers are increasingly wary of how their data is being used and shared online.Advocates for online privacy have praised the new law as a step in the right direction, but some critics argue that it may be difficult to enforce and could place undue burdens on small businesses and website operators. However, supporters of MOPPA believe that the benefits of protecting online privacy outweigh any potential challenges in implementation.Missouri is now one of a growing number of states taking action to protect online privacy, joining California, Illinois, and others in passing legislation aimed at safeguarding consumers' personal information. As technology continues to advance and the digital landscape evolves, it is likely that more states will follow suit in enacting laws to protect online privacy in the years to come.