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In a landmark move to ensure the protection of its residents' online privacy, the West Virginia legislature has passed new internet privacy laws on January 23, 2026. The legislation, known as the West Virginia Internet Privacy Act, aims to regulate the collection, use, and sharing of personal information by internet service providers (ISPs) operating within the state.Under the new law, ISPs are now required to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting any personal data, such as browsing history, app usage, and device location information. Additionally, ISPs are prohibited from selling or sharing this data with third parties without the customer's consent.The West Virginia Internet Privacy Act also includes provisions for greater transparency from ISPs, requiring them to provide clear and easily accessible information about their data collection practices, as well as options for customers to opt out of data collection and sharing.State lawmakers have hailed the passage of the bill as a significant step towards safeguarding the privacy rights of West Virginia residents in an increasingly digital world. Representative Sarah Johnson, who sponsored the legislation, stated, "With the rapid advancements in technology, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to protect our citizens' personal information online. The West Virginia Internet Privacy Act will ensure that ISPs respect the privacy and autonomy of their customers."The new law has been met with overwhelming support from consumer advocacy groups and privacy rights organizations. The West Virginia chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) issued a statement applauding the legislature for taking action to protect the privacy of state residents.Despite the positive reception of the West Virginia Internet Privacy Act, some industry critics have raised concerns about the potential impact on ISPs operating in the state. They argue that the new regulations could hinder innovation and create additional compliance costs for businesses.As the legislation comes into effect, ISPs operating in West Virginia will be required to comply with the new internet privacy laws or face penalties for non-compliance. The state attorney general's office will be responsible for enforcing the regulations and ensuring that ISPs adhere to the provisions outlined in the West Virginia Internet Privacy Act.Overall, the passage of the West Virginia Internet Privacy Act signals a significant victory for consumer privacy rights in the state, setting a precedent for other states to follow suit in implementing robust internet privacy protections.