Massachusetts votes to pass new privacy rights bill that bans sale of precise location data

Massachusetts has taken a significant step forward in safeguarding consumer privacy, with lawmakers voting unanimously to enhance data rights for residents. The state’s Consumer Data Privacy Act, which prohibits the sale of precise location data by companies, received overwhelming support in the House with a vote of 146-0. This decision follows the Senate's unanimous backing of a similar bill in September, and the two will now be reconciled before being sent to the governor for approval. This legislative move positions Massachusetts among a growing number of states advocating for stronger consumer privacy protections amid ongoing concerns over data misuse by tech companies. While the U.S. lacks a comprehensive federal privacy law, individual states have begun implementing their own regulations to address privacy issues. The forthcoming law will impact companies processing personal data from over 100,000 individuals, targeting both startups and established tech firms in Silicon Valley. Under the new bill, companies will be required to obtain explicit consent from users before sharing or selling sensitive personal information. This includes data related to health, genetics, biometrics, and sensitive personal identifiers such as religious beliefs and sexual orientation. The issue of location data has been particularly contentious, with data brokers often selling this information without users’ knowledge to various entities, including law enforcement and other organizations. The Massachusetts law aims to create a comprehensive ban on the sale of location data, extending protections to both residents and visitors. This legislation is expected to significantly affect startups that rely on location information, as well as advertising firms targeting consumers based on their whereabouts. Lawmakers from both parties collaborated to pass this bill, underscoring the belief that privacy is a fundamental right for all Massachusetts residents. Privacy advocates have lauded the bill, with Evan Greer, director of Fight for the Future, stating that it marks a crucial step in addressing the surveillance practices of major tech companies. The ACLU also recognized the bill's potential, highlighting Massachusetts' role as a pioneer in the realm of personal privacy protection and the fight against digital surveillance.