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On February 25, 2026, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf signed a groundbreaking new internet privacy law aimed at protecting the personal information of state residents. The law, known as the Pennsylvania Online Privacy Protection Act (POPPA), is the first of its kind in the state and sets a new standard for internet privacy regulations nationwide.Under POPPA, companies that collect personal information from Pennsylvania residents must now obtain explicit consent before sharing or selling that information to third parties. This includes data such as names, addresses, email addresses, and browsing history. Companies must also provide clear and accessible privacy policies outlining what data is being collected and how it will be used.Additionally, the law includes provisions for greater transparency and accountability in data breaches. Companies must now notify affected individuals within 30 days of discovering a breach, and the state Attorney General's office must be notified within 72 hours. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in significant fines and penalties for companies found to be in violation of the law.Governor Wolf praised the passage of POPPA, stating that it represents a major step forward in protecting the digital privacy and security of Pennsylvania residents. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding personal information in an increasingly connected world, and expressed confidence that the new law will help to prevent data breaches and unauthorized use of personal data.Privacy advocates and consumer rights groups have also lauded the passage of POPPA, calling it a victory for internet users in Pennsylvania. They see the law as a much-needed safeguard against the growing threats of data breaches and online privacy violations, and hope that it will serve as a model for other states to follow.Overall, the Pennsylvania Online Privacy Protection Act represents a significant milestone in the ongoing debate over internet privacy and data protection. With its passage, Pennsylvania has taken a proactive stance in safeguarding the personal information of its residents and setting a new standard for privacy regulations in the digital age.