By Associated Press - Thursday, January 10, 2019

BOSTON (AP) - Massachusetts has a new law designed to give consumers more protection from data breaches.

The bill signed on Thursday by Republican Gov. Charlie Baker was spurred by the massive 2017 Equifax breach. The measure includes several provisions, including one requiring companies that report data breaches to provide consumers with up to 18 months of free credit monitoring.

Consumers will also be able to request, without charge, a security freeze on their credit reports.

Baker says consumers will have more control over their personal data and how it’s used.

A revised version of the bill was sent to Baker’s desk on Dec. 31 after he sought amendments to the measure originally approved last summer. The governor said he wanted to avoid unintended consequences, such as hampering enforcement of child support obligations.

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