Navigating U.S. Privacy Laws in 2025 for Pharma Media

Throtle's Jonathon McLeod dives into the intricacies of the US Privacy Laws today & tomorrow

Jonathan McLeod
12th March 2025
The U.S. lacks a unified federal privacy law, so state regulations and targeted federal rules govern how those in the US collect, process, and use consumer data for advertising. Here’s what you need to know for 2025:

State Consumer Privacy Laws

Twenty states have comprehensive privacy laws by early 2025, impacting how we target and track audiences. These laws give consumers control over their data – items like names, browsing habits, or purchase history – and set rules for ad practices.

New State Laws in 2025:

  • Tennessee (July 1): Affects businesses handling 100,000+ Tennesseans’ data. Consumers can opt out of targeted ads or profiling, requiring us to refine consent tools.
  • Minnesota (July 31): Targets firms with 100,000+ Minnesotans’ data. Adds profiling scrutiny, meaning more transparency in how we segment audiences.

  • Maryland (October 1): Covers 35,000+ Marylanders’ data. Bans unnecessary data sales and limits processing sensitive info (e.g., health or race), tightening behavioral ad options.

Already Live: States like California (CCPA/CPRA), Colorado, and Virginia – plus 14 others – let consumers opt out of data sales and ads. California’s strict rules push brands to prioritize first-party data, while lighter laws (e.g., Iowa) offer flexibility.

Ad Impact: More opt-outs mean smaller audiences unless brands adapt. Brands should enhance consent management and lean on new innovations to keep your ROI strong.

Connecticut, Nevada, and Washington State Consumer...

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