Bill > SB0758

This bill, titled the "Michigan Kids Code Act," establishes new regulations for online service providers that interact with minors, aiming to protect children online. It defines key terms such as "covered online service provider" (companies that operate online services and meet certain revenue or user data thresholds), "covered minor" (a user under 18 that the provider knows is a minor), and "dark pattern" (user interface designs that manipulate minors' decision-making). The act mandates that default privacy settings for minors must be set to the highest level of privacy, preventing features like public account visibility, direct messaging with unknown adults, and search engine indexing unless explicitly chosen by the minor. It also restricts the collection and use of a minor's personal data, prohibits targeted advertising to minors, and limits the use of "covered design features" (elements that encourage excessive use) and "dark patterns." Parents are given tools to manage their child's privacy, restrict purchases, and monitor online time, and providers must offer clear ways for minors and parents to report harms. Furthermore, covered online service providers must annually publish a report, prepared by an independent auditor, detailing their practices regarding minors, including data usage, safety features, and how reported harms are addressed. The Attorney General is tasked with creating and updating rules to enforce these provisions, with violations potentially leading to civil fines. This act is contingent on the enactment of another bill, Senate Bill 759 of the 103rd Legislature, and takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0758