WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 3862

Relating to prohibiting use of social media platforms by children.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Todd Hunter

Texas bill would prohibit children's use of social media platforms, shifting online safety responsibility from platforms to user restrictions rather than industry accountability measures.

Placed on General State Calendar
#business&commerce--general(i0050) #computers&software(s2425) #consumerprotection(i0080) #education--primary&secondary--charterschools(i0245) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #internet(s0130) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3862

Legislative bill overview

HB 3862 would prohibit children from using social media platforms, though the bill text details remain limited in available records. This represents a significant regulatory approach to child online safety, placing restrictions directly on user access rather than platform responsibility. The bill is currently progressing through the Texas legislative process.

Why is this important

Child online safety is a pressing public concern, with documented issues including mental health impacts, predatory behavior, and addictive design features. However, how lawmakers choose to address these problems—through user restrictions versus platform accountability—fundamentally shapes implementation and effectiveness. This bill's approach directly impacts millions of Texas children and families' digital rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforceability challenges: How would the state verify age and monitor compliance across platforms operating nationally and internationally?
  • Parental rights vs. state authority: Whether government should override parental discretion in determining what digital tools their children access
  • Platform liability questions: Whether prohibitions shift responsibility from platforms to users, potentially reducing industry incentive for safer design and age-appropriate features
  • Constitutional concerns: Potential First Amendment and due process questions regarding broad restrictions on digital communication access
  • Practical alternatives: Whether regulation, age verification requirements, or parental control mandates might address concerns with fewer implementation obstacles

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

Sign in to ask a question.