This bill aims to enhance the privacy and data management of children under 18 in New Jersey by imposing specific requirements on social media platforms. Before launching any new online service, product, or feature likely to be accessed by children, these platforms must conduct a Data Protection Impact Assessment to identify potential risks to children's personal information and well-being. The bill outlines necessary actions for platforms, including documenting risks, configuring privacy settings, and providing clear privacy information tailored to children. It also prohibits the use of children's personal information in ways that could harm their health or well-being and establishes penalties for non-compliance, with fines reaching up to $2,500 for negligent violations and $7,500 for intentional violations per affected child.

To ensure adherence to these regulations, the bill establishes the New Jersey Children's Data Protection Commission, which will consist of nine members with expertise in children's data privacy. This commission will gather input from various stakeholders, evaluate online services likely to be accessed by children, and make recommendations to the Legislature on best practices for protecting children's privacy online. The commission is tasked with reviewing Data Protection Impact Assessments at least every two years or upon any material change and will submit annual reports on its findings. The bill is set to take effect 24 months after its enactment.