The governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, has signed a bill that imposes strict regulations on teenagers’ access to social media platforms. The Social Media Regulation Act requires social media companies to verify the age of Utah residents before they can create or maintain an account. Parental consent is now necessary for minors to open a social media account, and there is a curfew in place from 10:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. The law also prohibits social media firms from targeting minors with advertisements, suggesting content or accounts, and collecting personal information from minors. This legislation aims to enhance online safety for teenagers and protect their privacy.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah restricts teenagers’ access to social media | Restrictions on social media for teens | Increased safety measures, limited access for minors | Concern for the safety and well-being of teenagers online |
| Bill requires parental consent for social media | Parental approval required for minors | Minors need parental permission to open social media accounts | Protecting minors from potential online harms |
| Curfew established for teens on social media | Restricted access during specific hours | Limited access for teens during nighttime hours | Promoting healthy sleep habits and reducing online addiction |
| Social media firms to verify age of Utah residents | Age verification for social media | Enhanced verification processes for user age | Ensuring compliance with age restrictions and protecting minors |
| Ban on targeting ads and suggesting content to minors | Restriction on ads and content for minors | Minors protected from targeted ads and inappropriate content | Protecting minors from manipulative advertising and harmful content |
| Social media companies may sue to stop the law | Legal challenges to the law | Uncertain legal landscape for social media companies | Protecting business interests and challenging potential infringements |
| Opposition argues restrictions interfere with rights | Concerns about interference with rights | Potential infringements on minors’ rights and privacy | Balancing protection with individual rights and freedoms |
| States like Connecticut and Ohio introduce similar laws | Expansion of similar legislation | Potential for more states to implement similar restrictions | Growing recognition of the need to regulate social media for minors |
| Efforts to protect children on social media | Continuous efforts to protect minors | Continued development of regulations and safeguards | Recognizing the ongoing importance of safeguarding minors online |
| Calls to amend existing legislation | Advocacy for updating current laws | Potential revisions to existing legislation | Addressing evolving challenges and gaps in current regulatory frameworks |