The bill, H.B. No. 186, introduces a new subchapter, Subchapter C-1, to the Business & Commerce Code, which establishes regulations prohibiting children under the age of 18 from using social media platforms. It defines key terms such as "account holder" and "child," and mandates that social media platforms must verify the age of users before allowing them to create accounts. Specifically, the bill requires platforms to prohibit children from entering into contracts and to utilize commercially reasonable methods for age verification. Additionally, any personal information collected during this verification process must be deleted immediately after use.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of social media companies regarding account management and enforcement. It stipulates that companies must delete a child's account upon request from a verified parent or guardian and cease any further collection of personal information. Violations of these provisions are classified as deceptive trade practices, subjecting the companies to enforcement actions by the attorney general's consumer protection division. The regulations will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to access to social media platforms starting January 1, 2026.

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