On February 21, 2025, the Montana Legislature introduced Senate Bill 297, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the protection of minors' personal data in the digital landscape. The bill seeks to address growing concerns regarding the collection and use of personal information by online services, particularly those targeting younger users.

Senate Bill 297 outlines several key provisions that restrict how companies can handle minors' data. Notably, it prohibits the use of personal data for targeted advertising, the sale of such data, and profiling that could lead to significant legal consequences for the consumer. Additionally, the bill mandates that companies cannot process minors' data for purposes other than those disclosed at the time of collection, nor retain this data longer than necessary for the service provided.

Another critical aspect of the bill is its regulation of geolocation data. Companies are barred from collecting precise geolocation information from minors unless it is essential for the service and must provide clear signals to minors when such data is being collected.

The bill requires that companies obtain explicit consent from minors or, in the case of children, from their parents or legal guardians before engaging in any of the restricted activities. Compliance with the existing Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is recognized as sufficient to meet these consent requirements.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 297 has highlighted concerns from various stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to safeguard children's privacy in an increasingly digital world, while opponents raise issues about the potential burden on businesses and the implications for online services that cater to younger audiences.

The economic implications of the bill could be significant, as companies may need to invest in compliance measures to align with the new regulations. Socially, the bill reflects a growing recognition of the need to protect vulnerable populations from exploitation in the digital marketplace.

As the legislative process unfolds, the future of Senate Bill 297 remains uncertain. If passed, it could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, potentially reshaping the landscape of online privacy for minors across the nation. The Montana Legislature will continue to deliberate on the bill, with further discussions expected in the coming weeks.