Utah enacts H.B. 322 to protect minors' social media content rights

Utah's House Bill 322, introduced on February 13, 2025, aims to establish new regulations for child actors and minors featured in social media content. The bill empowers minors to request the deletion of content that features them, ensuring greater control over their digital footprint. This legislative move addresses growing concerns about the exploitation of young individuals in the entertainment industry and on social media platforms.

Key provisions of H.B. 322 include a clear process for minors to petition social media companies for the removal of their images or videos, alongside a mechanism for these companies to seek court approval to retain content if necessary. This dual approach seeks to balance the rights of minors with the operational needs of social media platforms.

The bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders. Advocates argue that it is a crucial step toward protecting vulnerable minors from potential online harassment and privacy violations. Critics, however, express concerns about the implications for content creators and the potential for misuse of the deletion requests, which could complicate content management for social media companies.

While the bill does not allocate any funding, its social implications are significant. By granting minors more agency over their online presence, H.B. 322 could reshape how content is created and shared, particularly in an era where social media plays a pivotal role in youth culture. Experts suggest that if passed, this legislation could set a precedent for similar laws in other states, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for child protection in digital spaces.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain, but its introduction marks a critical moment in the ongoing conversation about the rights of minors in the entertainment industry and online.