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In a landmark decision, Missouri lawmakers have passed a new internet privacy law aimed at protecting consumers from data breaches and data harvesting by large tech companies. The law, which was signed by Governor John Smith on Monday, will require internet service providers and websites to obtain explicit permission from users before collecting or sharing their personal information.The new law comes in response to a series of high-profile data breaches that have affected millions of Missouri residents in recent years. In 2024, a massive data breach at a popular social media platform exposed the personal information of over 10 million Missourians, leading to widespread identity theft and financial fraud. In the wake of these incidents, lawmakers in the state have been under increasing pressure to strengthen consumer privacy protections online.Under the new law, internet service providers and websites operating in Missouri will be required to obtain opt-in consent from users before collecting or sharing any personal information, including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and browsing history. This means that companies will no longer be able to automatically track users' online activities without their explicit permission.In addition, the law also includes provisions for increased transparency and accountability for companies that collect and store user data. Internet service providers and websites will be required to provide users with clear and accessible information about how their data is being used, as well as the option to delete or correct any inaccurate information.Privacy advocates have hailed the passage of the new law as a major victory for consumer rights in Missouri. "This law represents a critical step forward in protecting the privacy and security of Missouri residents online," said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for the Missouri Consumer Rights Coalition. "By requiring companies to obtain explicit consent before collecting personal information, this law puts consumers back in control of their own data."The new law is set to go into effect on January 1, 2027, giving companies operating in Missouri ample time to adjust their practices and ensure compliance. Violators of the law could face significant penalties, including fines and other enforcement actions.Overall, the passage of the new internet privacy law in Missouri marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle to protect consumer privacy online. With data breaches becoming increasingly common and sophisticated, state lawmakers are taking proactive steps to ensure that residents are safeguarded from potential harm.