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On August 6, 2025, Rhode Island Governor John Smith signed into law a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at protecting the online privacy of residents in the state. The new law, known as the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act, represents a major step forward in regulating the collection and sharing of personal data by telecommunications companies and internet service providers.Under the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act, telecommunications companies and internet service providers are now required to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or sharing their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, search queries, and location data. The law also mandates that these companies must provide customers with easily accessible options to opt out of data collection and sharing practices.In addition to these privacy protections, the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act also establishes strict guidelines for how telecommunications companies and internet service providers handle data breaches. Companies are now required to notify affected individuals within 72 hours of discovering a breach, and must also report the breach to state authorities and the Attorney General's office.Governor Smith praised the new law as a significant step towards safeguarding the privacy and security of Rhode Island residents in an increasingly digital world. "With the passage of the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act, we are sending a clear message that the privacy of our residents is paramount," said Governor Smith. "This legislation will help ensure that Rhode Islanders have control over their personal data and can feel confident that their online activities are not being exploited for profit."The Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act has been met with widespread support from privacy advocates and consumer rights groups. The Electronic Frontier Foundation, a leading digital rights organization, hailed the law as a "victory for privacy rights" and praised Governor Smith and the Rhode Island legislature for their commitment to protecting online privacy.The passage of the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act comes at a time of growing concern over online privacy and data security. With the proliferation of digital technology and the increasing use of online services, many states are taking steps to enact stronger protections for their residents. Rhode Island's new law sets a powerful precedent for other states to follow in the ongoing effort to ensure the privacy and security of all Americans in the digital age.