Wisconsin Bill Threatens VPN Access and Online Privacy

A controversial bill in Wisconsin, S.B. 130 / A.B. 105, is sparking concerns over online privacy and freedom of speech. The legislation, which has passed the State Assembly and is awaiting a vote in the State Senate, effectively aims to ban VPN access to websites deemed to contain “material harmful to minors.” Critics, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), argue the bill is technically unworkable, creates a privacy nightmare, and ultimately censors lawful speech.

What Does the Bill Propose?

The core of the bill mandates that websites hosting content considered potentially harmful to minors implement “reasonable age verification methods.” Crucially, it also requires these sites to block users connecting via Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). AB105 defines “material harmful to minors” broadly, encompassing content appealing to prurient interests and depicting sexual acts or body parts without serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

Why is This Bill Controversial?

The EFF and other digital rights advocates raise several key objections:

• Technical Unworkability: Websites struggle to reliably identify VPN users’ locations. Blocking based on IP addresses associated with VPNs could lead to over-blocking, impacting legitimate users in Wisconsin, other states, and even internationally. The EFF points out that websites may be forced to block all Wisconsin users or implement nationwide restrictions to avoid liability.
• Privacy Concerns: The bill necessitates the collection of sensitive personal data – potentially including government IDs, financial information, and biometric identifiers – for age verification. This raises significant privacy risks and the potential for data breaches.
• Censorship of Lawful Speech: The broad definition of “harmful to minors” extends beyond established legal precedents, potentially leading to the censorship of legitimate content.
• VPNs as Essential Tools: VPNs are vital for cybersecurity, used by a wide range of individuals and organizations – including businesses, journalists, abuse survivors, and those seeking to protect their online privacy.

What is the Current Status?

As of February 18, 2026, S.B. 130 / A.B. 105 has passed the Wisconsin State Assembly and is scheduled for a vote in the State Senate. The EFF has sent a letter to the Wisconsin Legislature urging lawmakers to reject the bill.

What Can You Do?

If you are a Wisconsin resident, contacting your State Senator to express opposition to S.B. 130 / A.B. 105 is encouraged. Concerns about the bill’s impact on cybersecurity, privacy, and free speech should be highlighted.

As the EFF states, protecting young people online should not come at the expense of fundamental rights and security.