Texas Passes Groundbreaking Social Media Law: Protecting Children or Infringing on Rights?

Texas Passes Groundbreaking Social Media Law: Protecting Children or Infringing on Rights?

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signs a law banning kids under 18 from using social media without parental consent. Learn more about the law and its potential impact.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a bill into law on June 14, 2023 that bans kids under the age of 18 from using social media without parental consent. The law, known as HB 18, requires social media companies to verify the age of users before they can create an account. If a user is found to be under the age of 18, the company must disable their account. Parents can also request that their child's account be deleted.

The law was passed in response to concerns about the negative effects of social media on children's mental health. Studies have shown that social media can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and self-harm among young people. The law's supporters argue that it will help to protect children from these harmful effects.

The law has been met with mixed reactions. Some people support the law, arguing that it is necessary to protect children. Others oppose the law, arguing that it is an overreach of government power and that it violates the First Amendment right to free speech.

The law is set to go into effect on September 1, 2023. It is unclear how social media companies will comply with the law. Some companies may require users to provide a government-issued ID in order to verify their age. Others may use facial recognition technology to verify age. It is also unclear how parents will be able to request that their child's account be deleted. Some companies may allow parents to do this through their website or app. Others may require parents to contact customer support.

The law is likely to face legal challenges. Some social media companies may challenge the law in court, arguing that it is unconstitutional. Others may challenge the law's enforcement, arguing that it is too difficult or expensive to comply with. It is also possible that the law will be challenged by parents who believe that it violates their right to raise their children as they see fit.

The law is a significant development in the debate over the role of social media in children's lives. It remains to be seen how the law will be implemented and whether it will be effective in protecting children from the negative effects of social media.

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