Texas Senate Bill SB2152

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/10/25

Caption

Relating to third-party software providers' ability to manage certain users' social media accounts.

Impact

If enacted, SB2152 would modify the Business & Commerce Code, specifically adding provisions regarding third-party management of social media accounts for minors. This bill could lead to new standards for compliance among social media companies regarding user management features. The requirement to develop APIs for third-party applications could potentially streamline parental oversight while enhancing accountability from service providers to protect minors on their platforms.

Summary

Senate Bill 2152 aims to enhance parental control over children's interactions on social media platforms by allowing third-party software providers to manage users' accounts. This legislation mandates social media companies to create and maintain real-time application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow parents or guardians to delegate permissions to these third-party providers. The intention behind this bill is to empower parents with tools to ensure their children's safety online by enabling restrictions on content and interactions through external applications.

Contention

While the goal of SB2152 is to foster safer online environments for children, there may be concerns about the implications for privacy and data security. Critics could argue that empowering third-party services to manage children's accounts may lead to overreach or misuse. Additionally, there might be discussions about the feasibility of enforcing such measures across numerous platforms and whether all entities will comply effectively. The balance between safeguarding youth online while ensuring the rights of both users and service providers will likely be a focal point of debate as this bill progresses.