The "Stop Harm from Addictive Social Media (SHASM) Act" is designed to protect children under the age of sixteen in South Carolina from the dangers of addictive social media features and inappropriate content. The bill requires social media platforms to implement age estimation and verification processes, establish default privacy settings for child accounts, and secure verifiable parental consent before allowing children to create or maintain accounts. It also prohibits the use of addictive interface features and profile-based paid commercial advertising in the feeds of child users.

To ensure compliance, the act outlines a framework for social media platforms, including timelines for age verification and account termination if parental consent is not obtained. It grants a private right of action for children or parents harmed by violations, allowing them to seek damages and attorney's fees. Furthermore, any waivers or limitations on child welfare rights made by a child or parent are deemed unlawful and void ab initio. The bill includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of remaining provisions if any part is found unconstitutional, and it is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.