Holding Social Media Accountable
Utah is at the forefront of holding social media companies accountable for the harms being caused to our children and young people. In 2023 the Utah State Legislature passed SB 152 and HB 311 , enacting the Utah Social Media Regulation Acts.
The Division of Consumer Protection wants to hear from you
What social media companies can and can’t do
Starting on March 1, 2024, social media companies must:
- Verify the age of a Utah adult seeking to maintain or open a social media account
- Get the consent of a parent or guardian for Utah users under age 18
- Allow parents or guardians full access to their child’s account
- Create a default curfew setting that blocks overnight access to minor accounts (10:30 pm to 6:30 am) which parents can adjust
- Protect minor accounts from unapproved direct messaging
- Block minor accounts from search results
In addition, social media companies:
- Cannot collect a minor's data
- Cannot target minor’s social media accounts for advertising
- Cannot target minor’s social media accounts with addictive designs or features
Enforcing the Social Media Regulation Acts
The Division of Consumer Protection may take administrative or civil actions to enforce the new laws. Violations can be reported to the Division starting March 1, 2024.
More from Governor Cox
Share Your Experience
Tell us about your experience with harms to minors from engaging with social media platforms.
Provide Input on Rules
Provide input on the rules related to the Social Media Regulation Acts, including age verification and parental consent.
Education
Learn how depression, anxiety, and additional mental health issues are impacting young people.
Social Harms Site
Learn how social media harms youth and their mental health.