A new law signed by the governor of Texas Greg Abbott prohibits children under 18 from creating social media accounts without parental permission. Bill HB 18, which will come into force in September next yearrequires social platforms to request and obtain the explicit consent of a parent or guardian of a minor before they can create their own account.
In addition, platforms will have to filter content deemed dangerous for children, such as content dealing with issues such as eating disorders or drug use.
Texas bans social media for under 18s, but it’s already controversial
The bill was obviously met with controversy. Among the first to oppose NetChoicean association that since 2001 has been promoting the conscious use of the internet.
“We are disappointed to see Governor Abbott sign a law that erodes parental rights and violates the First Amendment and the digital freedoms of all Texans,” he said. Carl Szabo, vice president and general counsel of NetChoice. “This new law prioritizes government decree over Texan family values.”
According to the law, parental consent would be required for “any minor who tries to access almost any website that collects identifying information, such as e-mail address”. There are a few exceptions, including sites that provide educational content, news, and email providers. Once enacted, the Texas Attorney General could sue companies that have violated these guidelines.
Texas isn’t the only state to limit the use of social media to minors. Last week, Louisiana also passed a similar lawwhich requires the consent of the parents of minors. Other states, such as Connecticut, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey and Ohio, are considering similar measures.