California law regulating web browsers could have national data privacy impact, experts say

Steven

California law regulating web browsers could have national data privacy impact, experts say

Summary

Privacy changes required by a new California law will force web browsers to provide a built-in, one‑click mechanism allowing California residents to opt out of data sharing and sales. Because the law protects residents wherever they are — including when travelling or using a VPN — regulators and the bill’s author expect browsers to roll the feature out nationally rather than implement region‑specific versions.

The law amends the California Consumer Privacy Act, was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in October and takes effect on 1 January 2027. Tom Kemp, executive director of the California Privacy Protection Agency, and bill sponsor Josh Lowenthal say implementation is technically straightforward for browsers, but accurately identifying who is a California resident is difficult, so a universal solution is likely. Major browser vendors have not publicly detailed changes; Microsoft declined to comment, and Google and Apple did not respond to requests for comment.

Regulators and advocates say a built‑in opt‑out toggle will massively increase the number of users sending opt‑out signals, which could force firms and data brokers to change business models or apply opt‑outs broadly to avoid compliance complexity across multiple states.

Key Points

  • California amended the CCPA to require browsers to offer a turnkey opt‑out tool for residents.
  • The law applies to California residents regardless of location, including when using a VPN or travelling.
  • Because residency is hard to determine, browsers are expected to offer the feature nationally rather than regionally.
  • The law takes effect on 2027-01-01.
  • Regulators expect a large increase in opt‑out signals once browsers include an easy toggle, pressuring firms to stop sharing data or to support opt‑outs for all users.
  • Major browser vendors have not publicly explained how they will implement the changes; Google reportedly lobbied against parts of the bill.
  • The change could significantly reduce the supply of data to data brokers and alter online advertising practices.

Why should I read this?

Short version: this could make “stop tracking me” a built‑in browser button for millions. If you care about online privacy, run a website, serve ads or work with consumer data, this will change your life — or at least your compliance checklist. We’ve cut the waffle: it’s simple to implement but big in impact, so worth a quick read.

Source

Source: https://therecord.media/california-web-browser-law-national-implications