Image Credit: capitol.tn.gov
The Tennessee Conservative Staff –
The Tennessee Senate passed legislation that will require social media platforms to use age verification and obtain parental consent for minors.
Senator Jack Johnson (R-Franklin-District 27) brought Senate Bill 2097 (SB2097) before the floor, moving to conform to companion House Bill 1891 (HB1891).
The bill, also known as the “Protecting Children from Social Media Act,” will require social media platforms to use age verification for all individuals who sign up to use the service. If a minor signs up, parents must provide consent for them to stay on the platform.
Additionally, platforms would be required to provide ways for parents to view and access the minor’s account, including privacy settings.
An amendment was added to the bill to clarify that the requirements were only for social media companies. It was specifically stated that it would not apply to online shopping venues, sites intended for career opportunities, payment platforms, cloud storage and cloud computing services, or sites that were intended for the receipt of technical support.
With no questions on the legislation, a vote was taken. The bill passed with 30 aye votes and 1 present not voting.
HB1891, sponsored by Representative William Lamberth (R-Portland-District 44), passed the House on March 25 with 88 representatives voting in favor, 2 voting against, and 5 marked as present not voting.
If signed by Governor Lee, the law would go into effect on January 1, 2025.
