Rhode Island State Representative Evan Shanley, representing Warwick and affiliated with the Democratic party, is introducing the "Right-to-know Data Transparency and Protection Act" in response to the repeal of broadband privacy rules by the Federal Communications Commission. This proposed legislation aims to provide state residents with control over the collection of their personal data. Representative Shanley highlighted the current lack of prohibition that prevents internet service providers and commercial websites from gathering and selling personally identifiable information to unknown third parties.

Under the proposed law, Rhode Island residents would have the choice to opt in or out of data collection practices. However, TechNet, a network of technology executives dedicated to promoting the growth of the innovation economy, argues that the enactment of this legislation would negatively impact consumers and technology companies within the state.

Rhode Island lawmaker proposes data transparency and protection act