Texas Nears Enactment of Strictest U.S. Social Media Ban for Minors

Texas is set to become the second U.S. state to impose a comprehensive social media ban for minors under 18, with lawmakers expected to pass the bill before their session concludes next week, NBC News reported. The legislation would require platforms to verify users’ ages and allow parents to request account deletions within 10 days. Violations could result in fines and lawsuits.

The move follows Florida’s 2024 law prohibiting social media access for children under 14. While such measures gain bipartisan support for mental health concerns, they face legal challenges from civil liberties groups arguing First Amendment violations.

The American Psychological Association warns blanket bans may be ineffective without complementary education. Meanwhile, tech industry group NetChoice—representing Meta and Google—pledges to challenge the Texas bill, calling it “censorship disguised as safety.”

Nationwide, 27 states have proposed youth social media restrictions this year, with nine enacting laws requiring parental consent or age verification. Federal lawmakers are also considering similar measures, though progress remains slow.