More Internet Law news More news in New Hampshire Find Internet Law lawyers in New Hampshire
In a groundbreaking move, the state of New Hampshire has passed a new internet privacy law that will give residents greater control over their personal data online. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor Jane Smith on Thursday, aims to protect the privacy and security of residents in an increasingly digital world.Under the new law, internet service providers in New Hampshire will be required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting, using, or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, location information, and app usage. ISPs will also be prohibited from selling this data to third parties without the user's consent.In addition, the law mandates that ISPs must implement robust security measures to safeguard the personal information of their customers. Any data breaches must be promptly reported to affected individuals and the state Attorney General's office.Governor Smith praised the new law as a crucial step in safeguarding the privacy and security of New Hampshire residents. "In an age where our personal information is constantly being collected and shared online, it is essential that we take proactive measures to protect our digital privacy rights," she said in a statement.The new law has been met with support from privacy advocates and consumer rights groups, who see it as a significant victory for internet users in the state. "This new legislation will give New Hampshire residents greater control over their personal data, empowering them to make informed choices about how their information is used online," said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for the New Hampshire Consumer Protection Alliance.However, some industry groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the new law on ISPs and their ability to provide services to consumers. They argue that the increased regulatory burden could stifle innovation and investment in the state's internet infrastructure.Despite these concerns, the New Hampshire internet privacy law is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, making the state a trailblazer in the protection of online privacy rights. As other states grapple with similar issues surrounding internet privacy, New Hampshire's move is seen as a potential blueprint for future legislation nationwide.