The Arkansas Kids Online Safety Act aims to enhance the safety and privacy of minors using online platforms by establishing a comprehensive framework for covered platforms, which include services and applications targeted at children. The Act introduces definitions for key terms and outlines the responsibilities of these platforms to mitigate risks associated with mental health issues, compulsive usage, and exposure to harmful content. It mandates that platforms implement reasonable measures to prevent harm, such as safeguarding against addiction-like behaviors and online bullying, while also providing accessible tools for minors and their parents to manage privacy and safety settings. Default settings must prioritize the highest level of protection for minors, and platforms are required to notify users when specific settings are in use.

Additionally, the bill prohibits advertising certain products, such as narcotics and alcohol, to minors and emphasizes transparency in data collection and algorithmic processes. It establishes the Kids Online Safety Council to identify risks and recommend best practices, while also allowing the Attorney General to enforce compliance with the regulations. The legislation introduces new regulations for opaque algorithms, requiring platforms to notify users about their use and offer an alternative version that employs an input-transparent algorithm. The Act also emphasizes user privacy by prohibiting certain types of user data from being included in decision-making processes and mandates that video streaming services implement measures to protect minors. The Act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.