The proposed bill, titled "An Act relative to regulation of minors on social media," aims to establish regulations for social media platforms regarding users under the age of 16 in Massachusetts. It introduces a new chapter, Chapter 93M, which defines social media and sets forth specific requirements for platforms. These include prohibiting the creation or maintenance of accounts for individuals under 16, requiring the termination of existing accounts for this age group, and mandating age verification through documentation such as a birth certificate or government-issued ID. The bill emphasizes that social media platforms must not retain copies of identification documents after verification and must take reasonable steps to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Additionally, the bill designates the attorney general as the authority responsible for enforcing these regulations, allowing them to take legal action against any violations. The chapter is set to take effect immediately upon passage. This legislation aims to enhance the safety of minors on social media by ensuring that only individuals of the appropriate age can access these platforms.