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In a move to strengthen privacy protections for its residents, the state of Montana has passed a new internet law aimed at safeguarding personal data online. The legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Jane Smith on December 16, 2025, is poised to make Montana a leader in internet privacy regulations.The new law, known as the Montana Internet Privacy Protection Act, will require all internet service providers operating in the state to obtain explicit consent from consumers before collecting or selling their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, IP addresses, and location data, which ISPs often use for targeted advertising purposes.Under the law, ISPs will also be mandated to provide consumers with clear and concise explanations of the types of data collected, how it is used, and any third parties with whom it is shared. Additionally, consumers will have the right to opt out of data collection and request that their information be deleted at any time.Governor Smith praised the new law as a vital step in protecting Montanans' privacy rights in the digital age. She stated, "In an era where data breaches and online tracking are far too common, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to ensure that our citizens' personal information remains secure. The Montana Internet Privacy Protection Act will help to empower consumers with greater control over their online data and hold internet service providers accountable for their practices."The passage of the Montana Internet Privacy Protection Act comes amid growing concerns about data privacy and security across the country. In recent years, several high-profile data breaches and privacy scandals have highlighted the need for stronger regulations to protect consumers' personal information.Montana's new internet law is expected to set a precedent for other states to follow suit in enacting similar privacy protections for their residents. With the support of Governor Smith and bipartisan backing from state lawmakers, the Montana Internet Privacy Protection Act is poised to make a significant impact on the way personal data is handled online in the state.Overall, the passage of this new legislation marks a significant win for consumer privacy rights in Montana and sets a strong foundation for a more secure and transparent online environment for residents.