A bill in Florida that would require social media platforms to disclose certain information related to the companies’ policies is ready for consideration by the full House.
The House Commerce Committee on Monday approved the measure (HB 591), labeled “Social Media Protection for Minors.”
The proposal targets platforms “predominantly accessed” by minors. The bill would require, for example, that companies disclose the use of features such as autoplay and infinite scroll.
In the news: Social Media Platform Parler Shuts Down Friday Post-Acquisition
The platforms also would have to divulge whether the sites allow sharing of manipulated photographs. Under the bill, the companies would have to clearly display on homepages or log-in pages whether such features are used.
Social media sites also would be required to provide “clear access” to “screen time limitations, data usage limitations, content filters, and other parental settings.”
Bill sponsor Tyler Sirois, R-Merritt Island, pointed to what he called “addictive qualities” of the features.
In the news: Rep. Gaetz Applauds House GOP Bill Blocking Federal Employees From Censoring Conservatives On Social Media
“When you look at what social media has done, you see increased rates of social isolation,” Sirois said. “You see increased rates of bullying, you see increased rates of suicide.” A similar Senate bill (SB 792) has not been heard in committees.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps.