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Bill

HR 6257

To protect minors from harms associated with ephemeral messaging features and unsolicited direct contact on social media platforms by prohibiting certain ephemeral messaging features for minors and mandating the provision of parental direct messaging controls, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Neal Dunn

HR 6257 protects minors by banning ephemeral messaging on social media and requiring parental controls, enhancing safety against cyberbullying and exploitation.

Introduced in House
2
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 6257

Summary of HR 6257: Protecting Minors from Harmful Social Media Features

Bill Number: HR 6257
Title: To protect minors from harms associated with ephemeral messaging features and unsolicited direct contact on social media platforms by prohibiting certain ephemeral messaging features for minors and mandating the provision of parental direct messaging controls, and for other purposes.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: November 21, 2025
Classification: Bill
Primary Sponsor: Neal P. Dunn

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HR 6257 is to enhance the safety of minors on social media platforms by addressing the risks associated with ephemeral messaging features and unsolicited direct contact. The bill aims to protect young users from potential harms such as cyberbullying, exploitation, and exposure to inappropriate content.

Key Provisions

HR 6257 includes several significant provisions:

  1. Prohibition of Ephemeral Messaging Features for Minors:

    • The bill seeks to prohibit social media platforms from offering ephemeral messaging features to users under the age of 18. Ephemeral messaging allows messages to disappear after a short period, which can lead to a lack of accountability and increased risks for minors.

  2. Parental Direct Messaging Controls:

    • Social media platforms would be required to implement parental controls that allow parents or guardians to monitor and manage direct messaging features for their minor children. This provision aims to empower parents to oversee their children's online interactions and enhance their safety.

  3. Reporting and Compliance Requirements:

    • The bill may include provisions for social media companies to report on their compliance with these regulations and the effectiveness of the parental controls implemented.

Affected Parties

  • Minors: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be individuals under the age of 18, who would gain increased protection from harmful interactions on social media.
  • Parents and Guardians: The bill provides tools for parents to better manage their children's online activities, fostering a safer digital environment.
  • Social Media Platforms: Companies operating social media services would need to adjust their features and implement new controls to comply with the bill's requirements.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 6257 was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration. This committee will review the bill, hold hearings, and may suggest amendments before it is brought to the floor for a vote.

  • Timeline: The bill was introduced on November 21, 2025, and is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. Further actions will depend on the committee's review and subsequent discussions in the House.

Conclusion

HR 6257 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding minors in the digital age by addressing specific features of social media that can pose risks. By prohibiting certain messaging functionalities and enhancing parental controls, the bill aims to create a safer online environment for young users. As it progresses through the legislative process, its implications for social media practices and child safety will be closely monitored.

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

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