MPs unanimous in relaxing website cookie rules

The Second Chamber today unanimously approved the relaxation of the cookie law proposed by Minister Henk Kamp of Economic Affairs. Websites will no longer have to ask their visitors' permission to use non-essential cookies. Reporting the locations of certain cookies will be sufficient. Specifically no permission will need to be sought before placing cookies that do not infringe on privacy, such as analytical cookies. The exception does not apply to cookies that are used for displaying advertisements or for linking to social media. The Second Chamber also approved a proposal by the PVV which states that public institutions should be forced to allow everyone access to their websites, even if the visitor refuses to accept cookies. The cookie law has been in force since June 5th, 2012. It requires websites to actively ask their visitors' permission to use cookies. Camp's proposal still needs to be discussed by the First Chamber. This seems to be a formality, but it will still be some time before the cookie law is adjusted.