The proposed bill, S. 268, seeks to enhance the protection of minors using online services in South Carolina by introducing a new Chapter 80 to Title 39 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. It requires covered online services to exercise reasonable care in handling minors' personal data and designing their platforms to mitigate risks such as compulsive usage and psychological distress. Key provisions include the implementation of tools for minors to manage their online time, control over the visibility of their personal data, and restrictions on targeted advertising. The bill also mandates default safety settings for minors and provides parents with resources to oversee their children's online activities.
Additionally, S. 268 requires online services to submit an annual public report to the Attorney General, detailing their practices regarding minors, including data collection and safety measures. The bill prohibits the default collection of precise geolocation information and limits notifications during specific hours. It establishes the Attorney General as the enforcer of these provisions, with covered online services facing treble damages for violations and potential personal liability for their employees. The act includes a severability clause to ensure its validity and will take effect upon the Governor's approval.