This bill establishes regulations for social media companies regarding the use of their platforms by minors in New Jersey. It mandates that a social media company cannot allow a minor to create an account without obtaining express consent from a parent or guardian, which includes providing government-issued identification and credit card information for a nominal fee of no more than 35 cents. The bill also requires social media companies to verify the age of account holders and confirm parental consent for minors, either at the time of account creation or within 14 days of an access attempt. If verification is not completed within the specified timeframe, access to the account must be denied until compliance is achieved.
Additionally, the bill prohibits direct messaging between minor account holders and adult users who are not connected through mutual "adding" on the platform. It restricts the collection and use of personal information from minor accounts to only what is necessary for compliance with state or federal law. The Division of Consumer Affairs is tasked with enforcing these provisions, including investigating complaints and imposing civil penalties of up to $2,500 for violations. Individuals also have the right to sue social media companies for non-compliance, with potential awards for damages and legal fees.