Bill > H98

This bill establishes comprehensive internet privacy protections for minors in Massachusetts by creating new regulations for online platforms and services. The legislation prohibits operators of websites, online services, and mobile applications from marketing or advertising certain potentially harmful products to minors, including alcohol, firearms, tobacco, cannabis, fireworks, electronic cigarettes, and obscene materials. The bill requires operators to allow registered minor users to remove content they have posted and provide clear instructions for doing so, while also restricting the use of minors' personal information for marketing purposes. Operators are required to take reasonable actions to avoid targeting minors with advertisements for restricted products, and they can face civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation if they fail to comply. The law provides some flexibility, such as not requiring age verification and allowing incidental product placement in content, and includes exceptions for content that must be maintained under other laws. Importantly, the bill does not mandate complete erasure of content in all circumstances, recognizing practical limitations of content removal. The provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving online platforms time to adapt to the new requirements and protect young users from potentially inappropriate marketing and content exposure.

Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H98