Oklahoma Senate Bill SB988

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Consumer protection; prohibiting the targeting of minors with obscene content. Effective date.

Impact

The amendment to Section 753 of the Oklahoma Consumer Protection Act will create stricter regulations for businesses and individuals in how they communicate with minors. It is anticipated that this will lead to modifications in marketing strategies directed at younger audiences, which may involve more rigorous screening of advertisements and content before dissemination. By legislating against such practices, the bill aims to mitigate the risk of harmful influences on children, thus affecting a broad range of industries, including entertainment, social media, and advertising.

Summary

Senate Bill 988 aims to enhance consumer protection laws in the state of Oklahoma. The bill amends existing legislation by explicitly prohibiting the targeting of minors with content or messages that contain obscene material. This update signifies a commitment to safeguard children from exposure to inappropriate content in advertising and promotional materials, reinforcing the state's stance on ethical advertising practices that prioritize the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB988 lie in the potential implications for freedom of speech and the breadth of content that may be classified as obscene. Critics may argue that the bill's language could lead to ambiguity in enforcement, thereby allowing for overreach in regulating content that could be interpreted in varying ways. Proponents advocate for the need to protect minors from harmful material, positing that such protections are essential for fostering a safe and healthy environment for youth. The balance between safeguarding children and upholding free expression remains a central debate within the discourse on this legislation.