- Discover how Minnesota’s new privacy law empowers users to control their personal data.
- Learn about the rights Minnesotans will have to access, correct, and delete their data.
- Understand the implications of this law for tech companies and data brokers.
- Find out how Incognito Browser can help you stay ahead in protecting your online privacy.
Minnesota Joins the Privacy Movement
Imagine the frustration of seeing a privacy notice pop up on your screen, only to realize that your state doesn’t offer the same protections as others. State Rep. Steve Elkins from Minnesota knows this feeling all too well. For years, he watched as states like California, Virginia, and Colorado took significant steps to enhance online privacy rights, leaving Minnesotans in the dust. But that’s about to change.
Starting next July, Minnesota will join the ranks of states with robust privacy laws. Thanks to Elkins’ persistence, Minnesota users will soon have the power to prevent their personal data from being sold to data brokers and used for targeted advertising. This new law also requires explicit permission before sensitive data like precise location and biometric information can be used.
The Legislative Journey
The journey to this landmark legislation wasn’t straightforward. The Data Privacy Act was bundled with other bills into updates to the recreational cannabis law, which passed on a nearly party-line vote. This strategic move, described by Elkins as “for legislative economy,” ensured the bill’s passage but limited its bipartisan support and public attention.
Despite this, the bill moved through House and Senate committees with unanimous voice votes. Elkins humorously noted that he made the bill so non-controversial that it faced virtually no opposition during hearings.
Empowering Minnesotans
Senator Bonnie Westlin emphasized the importance of this legislation, highlighting how tech companies currently collect and sell vast amounts of personal data. The new law gives Minnesotans unprecedented control over their data, including the right to access, correct, delete, and obtain copies of their personal information. Additionally, users can opt out of data sales entirely.
While legislative measures are crucial, individual actions can further enhance privacy. Browsing in incognito mode using the Incognito Browser app provides an extra layer of protection by preventing your browsing history from being stored and reducing the amount of data collected by websites.
Industry Collaboration
Interestingly, the tech industry did not oppose the bill but worked with Elkins on some provisions to align Minnesota’s law with those in other states. Andrew Kingman from the State Privacy and Security Coalition praised Elkins for his inclusive process in crafting these new consumer rights and business responsibilities.
The first state privacy act in the U.S. was passed in California, but it was Washington state’s version that became the template for many others, including Minnesota’s. However, unlike Washington, Minnesota does not allow individuals to sue for violations; enforcement is left to public agencies like the attorney general’s office.
Key Provisions of the Law
The new law mandates that companies controlling or processing personal data from at least 100,000 consumers must:
- Publish clear privacy policies.
- Protect consumer data.
- Limit data collection to what is necessary.
- Identify an employee responsible for data privacy.
- Allow consumers to opt out of data processing using universal opt-out mechanisms (UOOMs).
Small businesses are mostly exempt from these provisions but must still obtain consumer consent before selling sensitive data. Government entities and nonprofits are also exempt until 2029.
Practical Implications
Elkins’ background in database design gave him unique insights into what was needed for this bill to succeed. He emphasized the importance of companies maintaining an inventory of consumer data to fulfill requests for access, correction, or deletion.
Jordan Francis from the Future of Privacy Forum highlighted a unique feature of Minnesota’s law: the right to contest decisions made based on profiled data. This could impact employment opportunities, housing rentals, loans, and insurance purchases.
Location Data: A Sensitive Issue
The new law also addresses how precise location data can be collected and retained. While some apps need accurate location data (like rideshare services), others (like weather apps) do not. The law uses specific metrics to classify sensitive location data and restricts its collection without user permission.
Elkins pointed out that device manufacturers often collect precise location data, which can then be sold for targeted advertising. This underscores the importance of using tools like Incognito Browser to protect your privacy further.
Minnesota’s new privacy law is a significant step forward in empowering users to control their personal data. However, legislative measures alone aren’t enough. Using tools like Incognito Browser can provide additional layers of protection by enabling incognito mode private browsing and reducing data collection.
As we navigate an increasingly digital world, it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive about our online privacy. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or just starting to understand these issues, taking steps to protect your personal information is more important than ever.
