The proposed bill, known as the Parental Rights in Social Media Act, aims to regulate the creation of social media accounts for minors in Nebraska. It establishes that social media companies are prohibited from allowing minors to become account holders unless they receive express parental consent. The bill outlines the requirements for age verification methods, which may include the presentation of a digitized identification card, and mandates that social media companies develop a process for parents to supervise their minor children's accounts. This includes options for parents to view posts, messages, and control privacy settings, as well as monitor usage time.
Additionally, the bill provides a framework for civil actions against social media companies or third-party vendors that violate its provisions, allowing individuals to seek damages and attorney's fees. The Attorney General is designated to enforce the act, with the authority to impose penalties for violations. The act is set to become operative on January 1, 2026, and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part is deemed invalid, the remaining sections will still be enforceable.