On July 5, 2025, the Texas Legislature passed a groundbreaking internet privacy law aimed at protecting the personal information of Texas residents online. The new law, known as the Texas Online Privacy Protection Act (TOPPA), requires websites and online services that collect personal information to obtain express consent from users before sharing or selling their data to third parties.The passage of TOPPA comes in response to mounting concerns about data privacy and the increasing amount of personal information being collected and used by online platforms. In recent years, several high-profile data breaches and scandals have underscored the need for stronger protections for internet users.Under the new law, websites and online services must clearly disclose how they collect, use, and share personal information, as well as provide users with the option to opt-out of having their data shared or sold. Additionally, companies must implement reasonable security measures to protect the personal information they collect.Texas Governor John Smith praised the passage of TOPPA, stating that it represents a significant step forward in safeguarding the privacy of Texas residents in the digital age. "With the growing ubiquity of online platforms and the increasing amount of personal information being collected, it is crucial that we establish firm protections to ensure the privacy and security of our citizens," Governor Smith said.While the new law has been celebrated by privacy advocates and consumer rights groups, some tech companies have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their business models. Critics argue that the law could stifle innovation and impede the ability of companies to effectively monetize user data.Despite these concerns, supporters of TOPPA believe that the benefits of increased privacy protections outweigh any potential drawbacks. With the passage of this landmark legislation, Texas has taken a significant step towards empowering consumers to take control of their personal information online.