Bill > SB22

This bill aims to protect minors on social media by establishing comprehensive regulations for social media platforms in Pennsylvania. The legislation requires social media companies to obtain express parental consent before allowing minors under 16 to create accounts, with verification methods including forms, phone calls, video conferencing, and ID checks. The bill prohibits social media platforms from mining or selling personal data of minors, and restricts targeted advertising based on a minor's characteristics. Parents would be given account supervision tools, such as viewing privacy settings, setting time limits, and scheduling breaks. Social media companies face significant financial penalties for violations, ranging from $2,500 for a first offense involving a single minor to potentially $50 million for multiple violations. The bill also allows qualified individuals (parents or former minors) to request deletion of personal information collected when they were minors. The legislation is motivated by research showing links between social media use and negative mental health outcomes for teenagers, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. The goal is to provide greater oversight and protection for young users, with the Attorney General having exclusive jurisdiction to enforce these regulations. The law will take effect 18 months after its passage, giving social media companies time to implement the required changes.

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https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=22