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On January 20, 2026, the Ohio State Legislature voted to pass a new internet law aimed at protecting online privacy for residents of the state. The bill, known as the Online Privacy Protection Act, was introduced in response to growing concerns about data privacy and security in the digital age.Under the new law, internet service providers (ISPs) will be required to obtain consent from Ohio residents before collecting or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, search queries, and location information. ISPs will also be prohibited from selling this information to third parties without explicit consent from the individual.In addition to these privacy protections, the law also includes measures to enhance cybersecurity for Ohio residents. ISPs will be required to take reasonable steps to secure the personal information they collect and maintain. This includes implementing encryption protocols, regularly updating security measures, and notifying individuals in the event of a data breach.State lawmakers and consumer advocacy groups hailed the passage of the Online Privacy Protection Act as a significant step toward safeguarding the online privacy rights of Ohio residents. State Senator Emily Harris, who co-sponsored the bill, stated, "With the rapid expansion of the internet and technological advancements, it is crucial that we ensure the protection of personal data and information online. This law will give Ohioans peace of mind knowing that their privacy is being respected and protected."The new law is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026. ISPs operating in Ohio will have until that date to come into compliance with the requirements outlined in the legislation. Failure to do so could result in fines and penalties for non-compliance.Overall, the passage of the Online Privacy Protection Act in Ohio represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect online privacy rights in the state. It is expected to serve as a model for other states looking to enact similar measures to enhance online privacy and security for their residents.