Georgia enacts strict age verification rules for social media platforms

Georgia's Senate Bill 165, introduced on February 13, 2025, aims to enhance protections for minors online by imposing stricter age verification requirements on commercial entities and social media platforms. The bill seeks to address growing concerns about minors' access to harmful content and the need for better data retention practices.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the increase in penalties for violations of age verification laws. Commercial entities found in violation could face fines of up to $50,000 per incident, a significant increase from the previous cap of $10,000. This change underscores the urgency lawmakers feel regarding the protection of minors in the digital space. The Attorney General or local district attorneys will be responsible for enforcing these fines within a year of any violation.

Additionally, the bill mandates that social media platforms must take "commercially reasonable efforts" to verify the age of their users. Specifically, any individual verified to be under 16 years old will be classified as a minor, and those aged 14 or 15 will require explicit parental consent to create an account. This provision aims to ensure that minors are not exposed to inappropriate content without parental oversight.

The introduction of Senate Bill 165 has sparked notable debate among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to safeguard children from online dangers, while opponents raise concerns about the feasibility of enforcing such stringent age verification processes. Critics also worry that the bill may inadvertently limit access to social media for young users who could benefit from its positive aspects.

The implications of this legislation are significant, as it could reshape how social media platforms operate in Georgia and potentially influence similar measures in other states. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could lead to a national conversation about online safety and the responsibilities of digital platforms in protecting young users.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain. However, its introduction highlights the ongoing struggle to balance the benefits of digital connectivity with the imperative to protect vulnerable populations from online risks. The outcome of Senate Bill 165 could set a precedent for how states address the complex issues surrounding minors and digital media.