SB 937 requires app stores to verify the age category of users (e.g., child, teen, adult) when accounts are created and implement age verification methods. For minors (under 18), it mandates linking their accounts to a parent account and obtaining parental consent before purchases, app downloads, or in-app transactions. App stores must also notify parents of significant app changes (like updated content descriptions or new in-app purchases) and provide clear disclosures about data collection. This bill directly affects app stores, developers (who must provide age ratings and content descriptions), and parents of minors using mobile apps.
SB 978 requires online services likely accessed by minors (like social media or games) to design features that protect young users. It prohibits features causing "compulsive use" (e.g., endless scrolling) and restricts collecting sensitive data like biometrics or genetic information without clear consent. Businesses must set default privacy settings to the most protective level for minors and cannot use algorithmic recommendations to target them in ways that disrupt daily activities. The law also gives state agencies authority to create rules for identifying minors and enforcing these requirements, applying to businesses generating most revenue from online services in the state.
SB 939 prohibits operators of "companion chatbots" (AI systems designed to simulate ongoing, personalized relationships with users) from making these tools available to children under 18 without specific safety measures. It requires such chatbots to avoid encouraging self-harm, replacing professional mental health care, promoting illegal activity, sharing explicit content, prioritizing validation over safety, or optimizing engagement beyond safety features. Operators face civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation per day, and affected children or their guardians may sue for damages. The law exempts customer service bots, internal business tools, and research systems, and includes a 2027 implementation deadline.
SB 954 requires the Department of Justice to create and run a public awareness campaign focused on children's online safety. The campaign will educate parents and caregivers about internet risks for children and share practical steps to prevent exposure to harmful content, using digital platforms (websites, social media, newsletters) and print materials. Schools, as defined by statute, can request free copies of the campaign materials upon request. The bill does not create new funding or penalties, but mandates existing agency resources for this specific outreach effort.
AB 966 requires the Department of Justice to create and run a public awareness campaign focused on children's online safety. The campaign must use digital platforms (like the department’s website and social media) and print materials to educate families about internet risks and prevention steps for children. It specifically mandates that the Department provide free educational materials to schools (as defined in statute 118.257(1)(d)) upon request. The bill directly affects children and schools by promoting accessible resources to help prevent exposure to harmful online content.
SB 758 restricts how social media platforms handle users under 18 in the state, directly affecting platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook that allow minors to create profiles. The bill prohibits platforms from collecting or using minors' data for personalized content recommendations, algorithmic prioritization, or targeted advertising, while requiring age verification through approved methods. Platforms must also stop showing targeted ads to minors and may only use limited data for account maintenance. Violations could result in civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation, enforced by the state department of justice or affected individuals.
AB 105 requires business entities (like websites or platforms) distributing material harmful to minors to verify users' ages using approved methods before granting access. It applies specifically to sites containing a "substantial portion" (over one-third) of such material, defined as content with sexual depictions, prurient appeal, or lacking literary/artistic value for minors. The bill exempts bona fide news organizations and internet service providers from these requirements. Violations could result in civil lawsuits seeking damages, while the bill also bans publishing obscene material involving children or obscene content online.
This joint resolution formally designates October 2025 and October 2026 as "Cybersecurity Awareness Month" in Wisconsin. It does not create new laws or programs but makes an official state proclamation to highlight the importance of cybersecurity education. The resolution cites rising online threats like phishing scams and identity theft as reasons to promote public awareness. It directly affects all Wisconsin residents by encouraging broader attention to online safety practices during those months.
