More Internet Law news More news in Rhode Island Find Internet Law lawyers in Rhode Island
In a move that has been hailed as a victory for consumers and privacy advocates, Rhode Island has passed a new internet privacy law aimed at regulating the data practices of big tech companies. The law, which was signed into effect on April 10, 2026, is set to go into effect on January 1, 2027, and will require companies to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or selling their personal information.The Rhode Island Privacy Protection Act, as it is called, is one of the most comprehensive internet privacy laws in the country and has been praised for its forward-thinking approach to regulating the use of personal data online. Under the new law, companies will be required to provide users with clear and easily accessible information about what data is being collected, how it is being used, and who it is being shared with.Additionally, the law also gives consumers the right to opt out of having their data collected or sold, and requires companies to obtain parental consent before collecting data from minors under the age of 16. Companies that fail to comply with the law could face fines of up to $5,000 per violation.The passage of the Rhode Island Privacy Protection Act comes at a time when concerns about online privacy and data security are at an all-time high. In recent years, tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon have come under fire for their data practices, leading to calls for greater regulation and oversight of the industry.Supporters of the new law believe that it will help to level the playing field between consumers and big tech companies, giving individuals more control over their personal information and how it is used. Critics, however, argue that the law could stifle innovation and hurt Rhode Island's growing tech industry.Despite the controversy, Governor Gina Raimondo has expressed her support for the new law, stating that it is a necessary step towards protecting the privacy and security of Rhode Island residents in an increasingly digital world. With the passage of the Rhode Island Privacy Protection Act, the state joins a growing number of jurisdictions that are taking steps to regulate the use of personal data online, signaling a shift towards greater privacy protections for consumers nationwide.