1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

**Oppose Wisconsin's Misguided VPN Ban Legislation** I am writing to express my deep concern over the proposed legislation in Wisconsin that aims to crack down on VPN usage. This bill, if passed, would have far-reaching and disastrous consequences for online privacy, internet access, and the daily lives of countless Wisconsin residents. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a respected online privacy nonprofit, has rightly criticized this bill, stating that blocking VPNs would be "a disaster for everyone." It's clear that the lawmakers behind this legislation fundamentally misunderstand how VPNs work and their importance in our digital world. VPNs are not just tools for nefarious activities. They are essential for many legitimate purposes, including protecting the privacy and security of remote workers, university students accessing educational resources, and journalists safeguarding their sources and investigations. By attempting to block VPNs, this bill would effectively cripple these vital activities and expose Wisconsin residents to unnecessary online risks. The consequences of this legislation would extend far beyond our state borders. Websites would be forced to either cease operations in Wisconsin entirely or block all VPN users globally to avoid legal liability. This would not only isolate Wisconsin from the global internet but also potentially impact internet users worldwide. Furthermore, the bill's overly broad definition of content "harmful to minors" is deeply troubling. This vague language could potentially encompass a wide range of protected speech and educational content, leading to unintended censorship and limiting access to important information. I urge you to oppose this misguided legislation and instead work towards policies that protect both online privacy and child safety without resorting to sweeping, technologically unsound measures. We need laws that understand and respect the complexities of the digital world, not ones that threaten to dismantle the very foundations of internet privacy and access. Please stand up for the digital rights of your constituents and vote against this harmful VPN ban. The future of Wisconsin's participation in the global digital economy and the privacy of its citizens depend on your informed decision.