Bill > HB1275

This bill aims to protect minors from potential harm on social media platforms by establishing strict age verification and usage restrictions. The legislation defines social media platforms as online services that use algorithms, feature infinite scrolling, and primarily connect users for social interaction. For Oklahoma users, the bill prohibits minors under 16 from creating social media accounts and requires express parental consent for 16 and 17-year-olds. Social media companies must verify the age of account holders using methods like digitized identification cards or government-issued ID. The bill also restricts how platforms can collect, process, and use personal information of minors, banning practices that could cause substantial harm, such as profiling, collecting unnecessary data, or using dark patterns to manipulate user behavior. Platforms are prohibited from selling or sharing minors' personal information and must protect their privacy. If a social media company violates these rules, they can be held liable for penalties up to $2,500 per violation and potential damages. The Attorney General can initiate enforcement actions, and companies are given a 45-day period to cure any identified violations. The legislation explicitly states its intent is not to censor content but to protect young users from the potentially addictive and mentally harmful aspects of social media platforms.