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On November 14, 2025, lawmakers in Rhode Island introduced a new bill aimed at protecting the online privacy of state residents. The proposed legislation, known as the Rhode Island Internet Privacy Act, would require internet service providers (ISPs) to obtain explicit consent from consumers before collecting or selling their personal data.The bill comes in response to growing concerns about the privacy of online data and the potential for abuse by companies seeking to profit from the personal information of internet users. Under the proposed legislation, ISPs would be prohibited from tracking users' online activities without their explicit consent and would be required to provide clear and transparent information about how they collect and use customer data.In a statement announcing the bill, State Senator Sarah Thompson, a co-sponsor of the legislation, emphasized the importance of protecting Rhode Islanders' privacy rights in an increasingly digital world. "We live in a society where our personal information is constantly being collected and sold without our knowledge or consent," Senator Thompson said. "It is time for us to take a stand and ensure that our online privacy is protected."The Rhode Island Internet Privacy Act would also give consumers the right to opt out of targeted advertising and would require ISPs to notify customers in the event of a data breach. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for enforcement and penalties for violations, including fines for companies that fail to comply with the new regulations.The proposed legislation has already garnered support from privacy advocates and consumer rights groups, who see it as a crucial step toward safeguarding online privacy in Rhode Island. However, some industry groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the bill on their ability to collect and use customer data for marketing purposes.Lawmakers are set to hold hearings on the Rhode Island Internet Privacy Act in the coming weeks, with a vote expected to take place early next year. If passed, the legislation would make Rhode Island one of the first states in the nation to enact comprehensive internet privacy protections for its residents.