On July 6, 2025, Rhode Island made headlines with the passing of a new internet privacy law aimed at bolstering protections for residents' personal data. The law, which is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, marks a significant step towards safeguarding individuals' online privacy rights in the state.The Rhode Island Internet Privacy Act, as the law is officially known, covers a wide range of provisions designed to enhance privacy protections for users of online services and platforms. One of the key components of the law is the requirement for internet companies to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and browsing history.Additionally, the Rhode Island Internet Privacy Act mandates that internet companies provide users with the option to opt out of having their data collected or shared with third parties. Companies that fail to comply with these requirements could face significant fines and penalties, with potential enforcement actions being taken by the state's Attorney General's office.In a statement following the passage of the law, Governor Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of protecting Rhode Island residents' online privacy rights. She stated, "In today's digital age, our personal data is more valuable than ever before. It is crucial that we take steps to ensure that individuals have control over how their information is collected, used, and shared online."The passage of the Rhode Island Internet Privacy Act comes at a time of growing concern over data privacy and security issues in the digital realm. With the increasing prevalence of data breaches and online identity theft, state lawmakers and advocacy groups have been pushing for stronger measures to protect consumers' sensitive information.Overall, the new internet privacy law in Rhode Island represents a significant victory for residents seeking greater control over their online privacy rights. As other states consider similar legislation to address data privacy concerns, Rhode Island's proactive stance on the issue sets a positive example for the rest of the country.