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On August 27, 2025, South Carolina made headlines by passing a groundbreaking new internet law aimed at protecting consumer data and privacy in the state. The law, known as the Consumer Internet Protection Act (CIPA), was unanimously approved by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Jameson.The CIPA represents a significant step forward in safeguarding the personal information of South Carolina residents in the digital age. Under the new law, internet service providers are required to obtain explicit consent from consumers before collecting or sharing their personal data. Additionally, ISPs are prohibited from selling or disclosing sensitive information such as browsing history, location data, and financial information without consent."South Carolina is committed to ensuring the privacy and security of our residents' personal information in the digital realm," Governor Jameson said in a statement. "With the passage of the Consumer Internet Protection Act, we are taking proactive steps to protect consumer data and empower individuals to control how their information is used online."The CIPA also includes provisions for enforcement and penalties for non-compliance. ISPs found to be in violation of the law may face fines of up to $10,000 per violation, as well as potential suspension or revocation of their operating licenses in the state.The passage of the CIPA in South Carolina follows a trend of states taking action to protect consumer data and privacy in the absence of comprehensive federal regulations. With the increasing prevalence of data breaches and concerns over online privacy, many states are passing laws to fill the gaps left by the lack of federal action.Privacy advocates have praised South Carolina's new law as a significant step towards safeguarding consumer data in the state. "The CIPA represents a victory for online privacy rights in South Carolina," said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for the Electronic Frontier Foundation. "By requiring ISPs to obtain consent before collecting and sharing personal data, the state is setting a strong example for others to follow."Overall, the Consumer Internet Protection Act in South Carolina marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect consumer data and privacy in the digital age. With the passage of this comprehensive internet law, the state is taking proactive steps to empower individuals to control how their personal information is used online.