News

Maine governor signs online privacy bill

Maine governor signs online privacy bill

Photo: clipart.com


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)   Maine’s Democratic governor has signed what supporters call one of the strictest online privacy proposals in the country.

The bill, signed by Gov. Janet Mills on Thursday, prohibits internet service providers from using, disclosing, selling or permitting access to a customer’s personal information unless a customer “opts in.” The bill only applies to providers operating within the state when providing broadband internet to customers physically located in the state.

It also requires providers to take reasonable measures to protect customers’ personal information from unauthorized use, disclosure, sale or access. And it prohibits providers from refusing to serve customers or charge customers who do not consent to their personal information being shared.

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce had called it bad policy to pass such restrictions on a state-by-state basis.

Latest Headlines

8 hours ago in Local

Right Whale, Found Off Maine Coast, Growing in Population

The whales have shown a trend of slow population growth over the past four years.

19 hours ago in Local

New Hampshire Man Faces Attempted Murder After York Co. Stabbing

Deputies say the victim was taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland.

20 hours ago in Local

Man Accused of Threatening to Detonate Bomb During Bangor Burglary

Officers say they found the suspect inside a closed business in Bangor

21 hours ago in Local

CMP Transformer Move to Delay Traffic Through Scarborough

Drivers are asked to plan alternate routes and expect delays.

22 hours ago in Local

Standish woman accused of fatally shooting boyfriend appears in court

A Standish woman charged with murder for the shooting death of her boyfriend made her first court appearance on Monday.