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Bill

H 98

An Act relative to internet privacy rights for children

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick Kearney and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill establishing children's internet privacy protections requiring platforms to limit data collection, use, and sharing from minors.

Reporting date extended to Wednesday, November 12, 2025
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Bill Summary · H 98

Legislative bill overview

H 98 proposes to establish internet privacy protections specifically for children in Massachusetts. The bill would regulate how online platforms collect, use, and share personal data from minors, likely requiring parental consent and age verification mechanisms. Specific provisions are not detailed in the available action history, but the bill focuses on safeguarding children's digital privacy rights.

Why is this important

Children's online data is increasingly valuable to advertisers and platforms, creating risks of manipulation, excessive tracking, and exposure to harmful content targeting. Massachusetts would join several states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah, Virginia) that have passed or are considering similar legislation, potentially influencing national privacy standards. The bill addresses a growing gap between children's digital exposure and existing federal protections, which haven't been substantially updated since the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) of 1998.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs and business impact: Technology companies may argue that age verification and data restrictions impose significant operational costs, potentially affecting free services available to children
  • Defining "children" and enforcement scope: Determining age thresholds and which platforms are covered could create loopholes or overly broad restrictions (e.g., does it apply to all websites or just social media)
  • Parental consent mechanisms vs. user autonomy: Balancing parental control with older minors' developing autonomy and privacy expectations presents philosophical and practical challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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