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In a move applauded by privacy advocates and internet users alike, the Tennessee state legislature has passed a new internet privacy law aimed at protecting the personal information of residents. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor John Smith on Tuesday, November 15th, 2025, represents a significant step towards safeguarding the online data of Tennesseans.The new law, known as the Tennessee Online Privacy Protection Act (TOPPA), imposes strict regulations on internet service providers and online platforms operating in the state. Under TOPPA, companies are required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or sharing their personal information. This includes data such as browsing history, search queries, and location information.In addition to obtaining consent, companies are also required to provide users with the option to opt out of having their data shared with third parties. Furthermore, companies must implement robust security measures to protect the information they collect and notify users in the event of a data breach.The passage of TOPPA comes at a time when concerns around online privacy and data security are at an all-time high. With the increasing prevalence of data breaches and the selling of personal information to third parties, many Tennesseans have been calling for stronger measures to protect their online data.Governor Smith, who championed the bill, praised the legislature for taking proactive steps to address these concerns. In a statement following the signing of the bill, he said, "I am proud to sign the Tennessee Online Privacy Protection Act into law. This legislation will help ensure that the personal information of Tennessee residents is treated with the respect and care it deserves."Privacy advocates have also welcomed the new law, with many hailing it as a victory for consumer rights. "TOPPA is a significant step towards greater online privacy protections for residents of Tennessee," said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Privacy Rights Coalition. "We commend the legislature for recognizing the importance of safeguarding the personal information of internet users and taking action to address these concerns."With the passage of the Tennessee Online Privacy Protection Act, Tennessee joins a growing number of states that have implemented strict regulations to protect the online privacy of their residents. As internet usage continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that legislation such as TOPPA is crucial in ensuring that individuals have control over their personal information in the digital age.