On February 23, 2026, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf signed into law a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at protecting the privacy rights of state residents in the digital age. The new media law, known as the Pennsylvania Privacy Protection Act, sets strict guidelines for how media outlets and online platforms can collect, use, and share personal information.Under the Pennsylvania Privacy Protection Act, media outlets and online platforms are required to obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting their personal information. This includes data such as names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and browsing history. Companies found in violation of the law could face hefty fines and potential legal action.Governor Wolf emphasized the importance of safeguarding individuals' privacy rights in an increasingly digital world. He stated, "As technology continues to advance, it is crucial that we adapt our laws to protect the personal information of our residents. The Pennsylvania Privacy Protection Act will ensure that individuals have control over their data and can trust that it will be handled responsibly by media organizations."The new law also includes provisions for individuals to request access to their personal information held by media outlets and online platforms, as well as the ability to request that their data be deleted or corrected if it is found to be inaccurate. Additionally, companies are required to implement data security measures to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure of personal information.Media organizations and online platforms operating in Pennsylvania have voiced mixed reactions to the new legislation. While some see it as a necessary step towards protecting consumers' privacy rights, others have raised concerns about the potential impact on their business operations and revenue streams.Despite the challenges that may arise from the implementation of the Pennsylvania Privacy Protection Act, Governor Wolf and supporters of the legislation believe that it is a crucial step towards creating a more transparent and privacy-conscious media environment in the state. The law is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving companies ample time to adjust their practices and ensure compliance with the new regulations.