Governor of Maine Signs Bill Banning Internet Providers from Selling Consumer Data

Last week, the Governor of Maine, Janet Mills, signed the Act to Protect the Privacy of Online Consumer Information into law. Now that the law has been signed, it will become effective on July 1, 2020. This law is a more restrictive opt-in privacy protections than the California version that provides the consumer the opt-out right. This new law prohibits any internet service provider in Maine from using, selling, disclosure or sharing consumer information without express written consent and will bar the provider from penalizing a consumer or offering a discount in order to pressure a consumer into allowing the provider to sell or use the consumer data. There is also basic disclosures and information security requirements. There are limited exceptions to the new law where the provider can use the consumer information without consent. Provide the service from which the customer personal information is derived or for the services necessary to the provision of such service. Advertise or market the provider’s communications-related services to the customer. Comply with a lawful court order. Collect payment for the internet service. Protect users from fraud. And to provide location information to assist in the delivery of emergency services.