Texas is preparing to ban social networks for minors

Vlad Cherevko I have been interested in all kinds of electronics and technologies since 2004. I like to play computer games, and I understand the work of different gadgets. I regularly monitor the news of the technology in the world and write materials about it.

Texas may become the first in the United States to completely prohibit the use of social networks to people under 18 years of age, according to Engadget. The corresponding bill has already passed the Senate Committee and will be brought to the vote in the near future. If it is approved by June 2, it will come into force after the governor is signed.

The bill provides for the mandatory check of the age of all users who create accounts on social networks, and those accounts that have already been created by minors will be blocked. In addition, parents will be able to request the removal of their children’s accounts, while the platforms will have 10 days to comply with it, otherwise they are threatened with fines.

Texas is not the only state seeking to limit young people to social networks. Florida has already adopted a law that prohibits social networks for children under 14 years of age and requires parental consent for 14-15 years. However, the Texas law is much harsher.

Despite support from the legislators, the initiative is controversy. Proponents believe that this will help protect the mental health of young people, while critics call the law a violation of freedom of speech and predict lawsuits against its implementation.