Republicans in Washington voted to allow personal data to be tracked, stored and sold by internet service providers. Shilling proposal would block them from collecting personal information unless they obtain written consent. Bill now heads to Assembly.

MADISON, WI – Democrats in the State Senate were successful in restoring internet privacy rights in a vote on the Senate floor today. The proposal, introduced by Sen. Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) and the full Senate Democratic caucus, will protect consumers from having personal data tracked, stored and sold by internet service providers. Several states have taken quick action to restore internet privacy rights after Republicans in Congress voted to repeal consumer privacy protections.

“These new safeguards will ensure that consumers, not out-of-state corporations, have the final say in how their personal information and internet data is shared,” said Sen. Shilling. “I’m glad that Democrats were able to protect Wisconsin families and prevent out-of-state corporations from profiting off big data collection and invasive internet surveillance. Thanks to our quick action in the Senate, children, families and seniors in Wisconsin will have the opportunity to protect their personal information.”

Senate Amendment 13 to Senate Bill 49 prohibits internet service providers from collecting the personal information of internet users unless they obtain express written consent from the customer. The proposal forbids internet providers and telecommunication companies from denying service to someone that refuses to approve the collection of their personal data. The bill must still pass the Assembly and be signed by the Governor before becoming law.