California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the "California Opt Me Out Act" on [date], requiring web browsers to include an easy, universal way for users to opt out of data collection and sales. The law takes effect on January 1, 2027.
The new legislation requires browsers to provide a clear, one-click mechanism for Californians to opt out of data sharing across websites. According to the bill, "A business shall not develop or maintain a browser that does not include functionality configurable by a consumer that enables the browser to send an opt-out preference signal to businesses with which the consumer interacts through the browser."
Supporters of the law, including California State Senator Bob Wieckowski, who co-authored the bill, argue that it will give consumers more control over their personal data. "This law is a major step forward in protecting Californians' right to privacy," said Wieckowski. "By requiring browsers to make it easy for users to opt out of data collection and sales, we're putting power back in the hands of the people."
However, some critics argue that the law may have unintended consequences. "While the intention behind this law is good, it's unclear how it will actually work in practice," said a spokesperson for the California Chamber of Commerce. "We're concerned about the potential impact on businesses and consumers alike."
The new law builds on existing efforts to protect consumer data. In 2020, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) went into effect, giving Californians the right to know what personal data is being collected about them and to opt out of its sale.
While some browsers, such as DuckDuckGo, Firefox, and Brave, have already offered opt-out mechanisms, this law requires all major browsers, including Google's Chrome and Microsoft's Edge, to provide a similar option. "This law will level the playing field for consumers," said Wieckowski. "No longer will they be forced to choose between using a browser that respects their privacy or one that doesn't."
The law does not apply to Safari, as it is owned by Apple, which is based in Cupertino, California, and is therefore exempt from the law.
As the law takes effect on January 1, 2027, Californians can expect to see changes in how they interact with their web browsers. "This law will give consumers more control over their data and help them make informed decisions about who has access to it," said Wieckowski.
In related news, several other states, including Texas, Colorado, New Jersey, and Maryland, have similar laws or regulations in place that allow consumers to opt out of data collection and sales. However, California's law is unique in requiring all major browsers to provide a universal opt-out mechanism.
The impact of the new law on businesses and consumers will be closely watched as it takes effect. As Wieckowski noted, "This law is just the beginning of a broader effort to protect consumer privacy and give people more control over their data."
*Reporting by Yro.*
California Browsers Must Offer Easy Opt-Outs for Data Sharing Under New Law
1
0
