Cybersecurity Policy Report, Online Privacy Legislation Advances in Massachusetts, (Jan 9, 2026)
The Massachusetts Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure voted this week to advance a bill that seeks to protect Internet users’ privacy by requiring express written consent for the collection and use of personal information by service providers.
SB 289 would restrict telecommunications and Internet service providers from collecting, using, disclosing, or disseminating personal information of customers without their express written consent. The bill further would prohibit additional charges or service denial for non-consent.
“No such telecommunication or internet service provider shall add an additional surcharge for customers that do not provide their express written approval, and providers shall not refuse to provide services to a customer on the grounds that the customer has not approved collection, use, disclosure or other forms of dissemination of the customer’s personal information,” the bill specifies.
The bill (S.B. 289, Reg Sess.) is sponsored by Sen. Bruce Tarr (R.). It has been referred to the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
News: StateLegislation DataPrivacy