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In a groundbreaking move for online privacy rights, the state of New Hampshire has passed a new internet law aimed at protecting its residents from unwarranted digital surveillance and data collection. The law, known as the Online Privacy Protection Act, was approved by a bipartisan majority in the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Sarah Johnson on Tuesday.The Online Privacy Protection Act prohibits internet service providers and online platforms from collecting, storing, or selling personal data without the explicit consent of the user. Under the new law, companies must also provide clear and transparent explanations of how they use individuals' data and give users the option to opt out of data collection practices."This law represents a major step forward in safeguarding the privacy and security of our residents in the digital age," Governor Johnson said in a statement following the signing of the bill. "With the rapid advances in technology, it is crucial that we establish clear guidelines to protect our citizens from potential abuses of their personal information online."The passage of the Online Privacy Protection Act comes in response to growing concerns over data privacy and online security in the wake of several high-profile data breaches and scandals involving companies like Facebook and Google. Advocates for the law argue that individuals should have more control over their own data and be able to make informed decisions about how it is used."The internet has become an essential part of our daily lives, but with that convenience comes the risk of our personal information being exploited for profit," said State Senator Mark Reynolds, who co-sponsored the bill. "This law is a crucial step in empowering consumers to protect their privacy rights and ensuring that their data is handled responsibly by companies operating online."The Online Privacy Protection Act is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, making New Hampshire one of the first states in the nation to enact comprehensive online privacy legislation. Supporters of the law hope that it will serve as a model for other states to follow in the effort to strengthen protections for internet users across the country.