Which state was the first to enact a data breach notification law?

California was the first state to enact a data breach notification law, which became effective on July 1, 2003. This legislation requires companies to notify individuals when their personal information has been accessed or acquired by an unauthorized person. The introduction of this law marked a significant step in consumer protection, as it addressed the growing concerns over data breaches and identity theft.

The state's pioneering approach has influenced other states to implement similar laws, ultimately leading to a patchwork of regulations across the United States focused on data security and consumer rights. As a result, California's law is often cited as a foundational piece of legislation in the field of data protection, serving as a model for future legislation in other jurisdictions.