On December 13, 2025, Rhode Island Governor Jane Smith signed into law a new communications bill aimed at addressing privacy concerns in the digital age. The legislation, known as the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act, seeks to protect the privacy of residents while also promoting transparency and accountability among telecommunications companies.One of the key provisions of the new law is the requirement for telecommunications companies to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting, storing, or sharing their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, location data, and call records. Companies found in violation of this provision could face hefty fines and potential legal action.In addition to protecting consumer privacy, the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act also establishes guidelines for how telecommunications companies handle data breaches. Under the new law, companies are required to notify affected customers of any security breaches within a specified timeframe and take steps to mitigate the impact of the breach.Governor Smith expressed her support for the new legislation, stating that "in today's digital age, it is more important than ever to protect the privacy of our residents and hold telecommunications companies accountable for their data practices. The Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that Rhode Islanders can have confidence in the protection of their personal information."The passage of the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act comes amidst growing concerns over data privacy and security in the wake of numerous high-profile data breaches in recent years. Lawmakers hope that the new legislation will set a precedent for other states to follow and inspire further action at the federal level.Overall, the Rhode Island Communications Privacy Act represents a significant step forward in addressing privacy concerns in the digital age and providing residents with greater control over their personal information. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial that laws and regulations keep pace to protect the privacy and security of all individuals.