Massachusetts lawmakers have unanimously voted to pass a new Consumer Data Privacy Act, granting residents enhanced rights over their personal data and banning the sale of precise location data. The bill will apply to companies handling data from more than 100,000 consumers and is expected to be signed into law shortly.

While the United States lacks a nationwide privacy law, states like Massachusetts are stepping in with their own regulations. This move aims to protect sensitive information such as biometrics and geolocation data. The collection of location data has been a contentious issue, with governments often circumventing warrants by purchasing it on the open market.

The bill’s broad application is expected to impact startups and tech giants alike, potentially reining in their practices. Evan Greer from Fight for the Future hailed the law as a significant step in curbing Big Tech's surveillance abuses. Similarly, the American Civil Liberties Union praised Massachusetts for setting an example in privacy protection.

This legislation marks another milestone in the ongoing debate over data privacy and tech regulation. As more states follow suit, the cumulative effect could reshape how personal data is handled across the country.