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In response to growing concerns about online privacy and data security, Wisconsin has introduced a new internet law aimed at protecting users' personal information. The legislation, which was signed into law on July 27, 2025, includes provisions that require internet service providers to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or sharing their personal data.The new law, known as the Wisconsin Online Privacy Protection Act (WOPPA), also prohibits ISPs from selling or sharing users' browsing histories, app usage data, or any other form of personal information without their consent. Additionally, the legislation includes strict penalties for violations, including fines of up to $10,000 per violation.Governor Rebecca Nelson, who signed the bill into law, stated that the legislation was necessary to ensure that Wisconsin residents have greater control over their online privacy. "In today's digital age, it is more important than ever to protect our personal information from exploitation and misuse," Governor Nelson said in a statement. "With the passage of the Wisconsin Online Privacy Protection Act, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard the privacy rights of our citizens."The introduction of WOPPA has been met with widespread support from privacy advocates and consumer rights groups. "This is a significant step forward in protecting the privacy of Wisconsin residents online," said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for the Wisconsin Consumer Rights Coalition. "By requiring ISPs to obtain explicit consent before collecting or sharing personal data, this law puts control back in the hands of consumers where it belongs."However, the new law has also faced criticism from some industry groups, who argue that it could stifle innovation and hinder the growth of Wisconsin's tech sector. The Wisconsin Internet Providers Association released a statement expressing concerns about the potential impact of the law on their members. "While we support the goal of protecting online privacy, we believe that there are more effective ways to achieve this goal without unduly burdening ISPs and hindering the development of new technologies," the statement read.Despite these criticisms, supporters of the Wisconsin Online Privacy Protection Act remain optimistic about its potential impact. "This law is a critical step forward in ensuring that Wisconsinites have the right to control their personal information online," said Governor Nelson. "I am confident that this legislation will provide much-needed protections for our residents and help to preserve their privacy in an increasingly digital world."