Rhode Island Senate Bill S0153

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/25
• Refer: 1/31/25

Caption

Establishes a statutory framework designed to protect minors who are engaging in the business of vloging on social media and the Internet.

Impact

If passed, S0153 would amend the current state laws regarding the employment of minors. It specifically recognizes vlogging as a form of work that requires the protection of minors under the same oversight that governs other employment activities. As a result, vloggers who include minors in their content would be required to maintain accurate records regarding their work and compensation and allocate a percentage of the earnings to a trust fund designated for the minor. This act aims to prevent the potential exploitation of minors in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Summary

S0153 aims to establish a legal framework specifically aimed at protecting minors who participate in vlogging on social media and the internet. The legislation introduces definitions related to vlogging and minors, creates guidelines for compensation of minors engaged in vlogging, and mandates the establishment of trust funds for any revenue generated from a minor's likeness or name in video content. This bill acknowledges the growing phenomenon of vlogging among minors and seeks to provide them with protections similar to those available to child performers in traditional entertainment.

Contention

While the intent of S0153 is to safeguard minors engaged in vlogging, there may be concerns regarding its implementation and the delineation of responsibilities for vloggers. Questions surrounding the enforcement of compensation disclosures and the management of trust funds may arise. Furthermore, the bill's effect on the creative freedom of content creators, as well as the potential for increased litigation by minors and their representatives for enforcement of the provisions, may generate debate among stakeholders in the industry.