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In a groundbreaking move, the state of North Dakota has passed a new internet law that aims to protect online privacy for its residents. The law, which was signed by Governor John Smith on July 13, 2025, prohibits internet service providers (ISPs) from collecting and selling personal data without the explicit consent of the user.The law comes as a response to growing concerns about online privacy and data security in the digital age. With the rise of social media and e-commerce platforms, users have become increasingly aware of how their personal information is being harvested and monetized by companies for targeted advertising and other purposes.Under the new law, ISPs in North Dakota are required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting, storing, or selling their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, search queries, location data, and any other sensitive information that could be used to identify an individual online.Furthermore, the law also requires ISPs to provide users with the option to opt out of data collection and sharing practices. This means that individuals can choose to protect their online privacy by preventing ISPs from tracking their online activity and selling their data to third parties.Governor Smith praised the new law as a vital step towards safeguarding the privacy and security of North Dakota residents in the digital age. He stated, "In an era where our personal information is constantly under threat from cyberattacks and data breaches, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to protect the online privacy of our citizens. This new law will empower individuals to control their own data and make informed choices about how it is used."The North Dakota internet law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving ISPs a six-month grace period to adjust their practices and ensure compliance with the new regulations. Violations of the law will result in significant penalties for ISPs, including hefty fines and potential revocation of their licenses to operate in the state.Overall, the passing of this new internet law represents a major victory for online privacy advocates in North Dakota and sets a precedent for other states to follow suit in protecting the digital rights of their residents.