Technology (Social Media)

HB 408 requires social media platforms to let users transfer portions of their personal data - including connections, content, and interactions - to other platforms within five business days. It mandates real-time data sharing when users switch services, requires explicit user consent before sharing comments or interactions during transfers, and protects platforms from penalties for temporary technical issues if they make good-faith fixes. The bill clarifies that platforms must provide data in a portable, usable format but exempts them from sharing internal algorithms, derived data, or proprietary formats that lack industry standards. This directly affects Utah social media users and platforms operating in the state, focusing on user control over their digital data.

SB 73 requires online platforms providing content deemed harmful to minors to implement age verification systems. It imposes an excise tax on these platforms, with revenues funding mental health programs and enforcement through the Division of Consumer Protection. The bill creates two dedicated accounts for these funds and grants the Division authority to investigate violations, impose fines, and establish verification standards. Platforms failing to comply face civil penalties, while approved verification methods receive a safe harbor from liability.

HB 218 amends Utah’s requirements for digital literacy education in grades 7 and 8, directly affecting public school students in those grades starting the 2027-2028 school year. The bill defines specific digital skills concepts (such as online ethics, AI literacy, cybersecurity, social media impact, and misinformation evaluation) that must be covered in the course. It also establishes an advisory tech council to guide curriculum development, recommend resources, and advise on emerging technologies. The changes update existing education codes without new funding, focusing on standardizing digital literacy instruction across Utah schools.

HB 237 amends Utah's stalking law to strengthen protections for victims and increase penalties for offenders. It specifically adds a second-degree felony penalty when an offender unlawfully enters a victim's dwelling during stalking, and clarifies definitions like "course of conduct" to include digital harassment (e.g., texts, social media). The bill directly affects stalking victims and individuals convicted of stalking, making unlawful dwelling entry a more severe offense. These changes update existing statutes without new funding or broad procedural shifts.