The Texas Legislature took steps this session to change the online landscape for kids and the tech companies that provide them apps and social media accounts.
Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill this week that requires Apple and Google to verify the ages of people who download software from their app stores. Another bill that would have banned minors from having accounts on services like TikTok and Instagram is likely dead after a missed deadline.
Tech expert Omar Gallaga joined the Standard with more.
Highlights from the segment:
– The App Store Accountability Act prevents minors from downloading apps from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or making in-app purchases, without parental permission.
– House Bill 186, which passed the House, would have banned minors from social media sites like X, TikTok and Instagram, and required parents who wish to allow their children to have accounts to prove they have the authority to do so. But that bill missed a crucial procedural deadline Wednesday.
– Opponents of the proposed ban included student athletes, who use social media to promote their careers.
