Empowerment in the era of digital transparency takes a concrete form in Minnesota as of July 31, thanks to the legislative efforts of Senator Bonnie Westlin (DFL – Plymouth). The Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act, enacted through Westlin's push of Senate File 2915, establishes a new frontier for privacy rights in the state. Minnesota residents can now exercise control over their personal online data — a move that places the individuals' interest first against the sprawling reach of big tech.
Putting power into the hands of the state's dwellers, the legislation guarantees a series of rights: access to personal data held by companies, correction of inaccuracies in said data, the option to delete personal data, and the ability to obtain copies of their data from these controlling entities. Minnesotans, deeply concerned by the unregulated sprawl of digital information, can opt out of the sale of their data, prevent targeted advertising, and resist profiling with significant consequences, thanks to the new act. Engaged in ensuring that Minnesotans reclaim ownership of their digital echoes, Westlin stated, "I’m proud that we prioritized the Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act in 2024 to ensure every person in this state has control over their online personal data," according to a statement from the Senator's office.
Senator Westlin also noted, "Big tech companies are bigger and wealthier than ever before, and we are their product. Our data is used and sold by these companies, and until now, we have had no control over where our data is or how it is used." Declaring the imminent ascendancy of Minnesotans over the fate of their data, she underscored the importance of the act, "On July 31, Minnesotans are put back in control of their personal online data. We can now access the data, correct it, and delete it if we choose to do so. You can opt out of being their product and tell these companies that your data is not for sale."
This legislation, heralded as just the beginning of a larger crusade to bring big tech to heel, endows the Minnesota Attorney General with enforcement authority. Garnering attention not only from privacy advocates in the state but also from industry insiders, the act witnessed support from Microsoft during its passage. With an eye on the horizon, Westlin looks forward to further collaboration. She said, "This law is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to regulating big tech giants in Minnesota. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature to ensure these online platforms are held accountable to the standards Minnesotans expect in any marketplace."
