Texas Proposes Strict Social Media Restrictions for Minors

Texas is on the verge of passing one of the strictest social media laws targeting minors in the United States. House Bill 186 proposes to make it illegal for anyone under 18 to create new social media accounts on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. Beyond banning minors from joining, the bill would require all new users to undergo age verification.

The legislation also empowers parents to request deletion of their minor children's accounts. Platforms would then have 10 days to comply or face fines and lawsuits. Supporters argue this law is necessary to combat the mental health risks social media poses to teenagers.

While the bill has passed the Texas House of Representatives, it still requires approval from the state senate and the governor's signature. If enacted, it would take effect on September 1, 2025, with enforcement beginning January 1, 2026.

Texas is not alone in this approach. Utah passed a similar law last year, but it was blocked by a federal judge. Florida is also embroiled in legal battles over social media restrictions. These cases highlight the complex legal landscape surrounding age restrictions and platform responsibilities.

This bill follows Texas's 2023 SCOPE Act, which sought to limit data collection and advertising targeting minors on social media. However, courts have challenged and blocked parts of that law, signaling potential hurdles for House Bill 186.

University of Houston political science professor Brandon Rottinghaus notes that the U.S. Supreme Court is currently reviewing the legality of such laws. Historically, the Court has ruled against compelling websites to verify user age, but shifting political climates emphasizing parental rights could influence future decisions.

Social media companies are expected to resist these regulations vigorously, but may ultimately have limited options if the laws are upheld. Meanwhile, discussions about national age restriction laws are gaining momentum, though federal legislation remains a challenging prospect.

In addition to House Bill 186, Texas lawmakers are considering HB 499, which would require social media platforms to display warning labels about mental health risks for minors. This bill has also passed the Texas House and reflects growing concern over social media's impact on youth well-being.

The evolving legal and political landscape around social media regulation underscores a critical question: how can platforms balance protecting young users while maintaining open access? Texas's bold moves may set a precedent, but the path forward will likely involve complex negotiations between lawmakers, tech companies, and courts.