The Pennsylvania state House of Representatives has approved legislation aimed at regulating how online social media platforms interact with children, in a move that mirrors similar laws being challenged in federal courts and the U.S. Supreme Court.
The bill, known as House Bill 2017, passed by a narrow margin of 105-95, with most Republicans in favor and most Democrats against. It requires social media platforms to allow users to report “hateful conduct” such as threats or bullying, and to have a policy for responding to such reports. Additionally, users under 18 would need parental consent to use the platforms and data mining of users under 18 would be prohibited.
The sponsor of the bill, Rep. Brian Munroe, emphasized that the legislation is in the best interest of children, comparing it to age-related restrictions in other areas such as movies, driving, and drinking alcohol. He stated that parents and children are asking for such regulation.
However, the bill faces an uncertain future in the state Senate, which is controlled by Republicans. The Computer and Communications Industry Association, representing tech giants like Google and Meta, raised concerns about the legislation infringing on younger users’ ability to access online expression and potential data privacy and security issues.
Similar laws in other states, such as New York and Utah, have faced legal challenges, with federal courts blocking enforcement. The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard arguments on state laws in Florida and Texas seeking to regulate social media platforms.
As the debate over regulating social media platforms continues, the future of House Bill 2017 in Pennsylvania remains uncertain.
