Technology (Social Media)

HB 3862 prohibits children under 18 from using social media platforms in Texas. The bill requires social media companies to verify users are 18+ using government-issued ID before allowing account creation (Section 120.113) and bans platforms from permitting minors to access their services (Section 120.112). Violations would be treated as deceptive trade practices under Texas law. The bill applies to platforms with over 50 million U.S. monthly active users. It is currently pending in the Texas legislature after committee review.

HB 186 prohibits children under 18 from using social media platforms in Texas, subject to federal law. The bill defines "social media platform" to exclude email, internet service providers, news websites, and interactive gaming platforms. Social media platforms must verify users are 18 or older before account creation using a reasonable method relying on public or private data, then delete all verification information immediately. This law directly affects children under 18 and social media companies operating in Texas.