The Connecticut State Legislature convened on February 25, 2025, to introduce House Bill 5474, a significant legislative proposal aimed at enhancing online safety for minors. The bill seeks to address the growing concerns surrounding cyberbullying and the protection of minors' personal data on social media platforms.

House Bill 5474 mandates that social media platform owners establish an online safety center and implement a comprehensive cyberbullying policy. This initiative is designed to create a safer digital environment for young users. Additionally, the bill redefines "heightened risk of harm to minors," expanding it to include any processing of minors' personal data that could foreseeably endanger their physical or mental health.

Key provisions of the bill require online services targeting minors to adopt several protective measures. These include implementing default settings that prevent unsolicited communications from adults, avoiding design features that encourage excessive use by minors, and disclosing to the Attorney General a plan to mitigate risks associated with minors' online interactions.

The introduction of House Bill 5474 has sparked notable discussions among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward safeguarding children in an increasingly digital world, while critics express concerns about the potential implications for free speech and the operational burdens it may impose on social media companies.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, pending further legislative review and potential amendments. If passed, it could have significant social implications, reshaping how online platforms engage with young users and how they manage data privacy. Experts suggest that the bill could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar issues, potentially influencing national standards for online safety and child protection.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the discussions surrounding House Bill 5474, assessing its potential impact on both the digital landscape and the well-being of minors in Connecticut.