Should the U.S. Follow Europe in Imposing Stricter Data-Privacy Regulations?

Supporters say it’s time to counter tech companies’ widespread collection of personal data. Opponents say generic regulations aren’t the most effective way to do that.

The European Union has taken a huge step in regulating the internet with its General Data Protection Regulation. Should the U.S. follow suit?

The GDPR gives individuals significant new privacy rights and adds more responsibilities for companies.

Those that don’t follow the rules—or that don’t show that they that are responsive to people’s...