Bill > HB2038

This bill addresses youth behavioral health concerns by establishing a new business and occupation (B&O) tax specifically on social media platforms, starting January 1, 2026. The legislation is motivated by research showing significant mental health risks for young people who extensively use social media, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, and problematic internet use. Under the bill, social media platforms will be required to pay an additional 0.4% tax on their gross income, with proceeds deposited into a newly created youth behavioral health account. The tax will not apply to nonprofit organizations, and the funds will be used to support three primary areas: (1) behavioral health needs for individuals from prenatal to age 25, as identified by a state strategic plan; (2) a pilot program for telebehavioral health services for school-aged youth; and (3) supporting the governor's office in addressing youth behavioral health, including funding a multisystem care coordinator. The bill carefully defines "social media platform" to include websites and applications that allow users to create profiles, interact socially, and share content, while excluding services like email, online gaming, and academic research platforms. This legislation aims to address the growing concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health by providing dedicated funding for behavioral health services and research.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2038&Year=2025&Initiative=false