Texas has implemented a new law requiring parental approval for children to create social media accounts. This law, part of the SCOPE Act, aims to protect children from potential online dangers such as cyberbullying and predators. While some social media companies argue they already have safeguards in place, the law mandates parental involvement in children’s online activity.
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has approved a bill aimed at regulating how online social media platforms interact with children, despite concerns that its provisions are similar to those in state laws being blocked in federal courts or before the U.S. Supreme Court. The bill, which passed nearly along party lines, would require social media platforms to allow users to report “hateful conduct,” get parental consent from users under 18, and prohibit “data mining” of users under 18. The bill faces an uncertain future in the Republican-controlled state Senate, and the nation’s highest court may soon decide whether state-level provisions like the ones in the bill can be enforced.
Tennessee is poised to follow Idaho in banning adults from aiding minors in obtaining abortions without parental permission. Despite anticipated legal challenges, the measure is expected to be signed into law, potentially affecting access to healthcare for vulnerable minors. Opponents, including Democratic Rep. Aftyn Behn, have criticized the bill as an infringement on parental rights. Meanwhile, supporters argue that it protects minors and alleviates the burden on parents.
In response to the growing mental health crisis among young Alaskans, the Alaska Senate is considering legislation that would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to seek therapy without parental permission. The bill, introduced by Gov. Mike Dunleavy and amended by Senate Majority Leader Cathy Giessel, would lower the minimum age for independent mental health care from 18 to 16. Currently, 33 states allow minors under 18 to obtain mental health care independently, while four states permit it as early as 12.
Justice Richard Petrie aims to decide on May 6 whether to allow six groups to intervene in the legal challenge against Policy 713, which requires parental consent for students under 16 to use different names or pronouns in school. However, other issues, such as redactions in documents and a possible split hearing, could delay proceedings. Despite the province’s argument that there is no urgency, the CCLA insists that resolving the case is essential to protect students from alleged harm.
