Washington legislature establishes youth behavioral health account funded by social media tax

On March 18, 2025, Washington lawmakers introduced House Bill 2038, a significant legislative proposal aimed at addressing the growing mental health crisis among youth linked to social media use. The bill seeks to establish a Youth Behavioral Health Account, funded through an additional business and occupation tax imposed on social media platforms operating within the state.

The primary purpose of House Bill 2038 is to tackle the alarming rise in mental health issues among young people, as highlighted by the U.S. Surgeon General's advisory. The advisory indicates that adolescents who spend over three hours daily on social media are at double the risk of experiencing depression and anxiety. With nearly universal social media usage among teens, the bill aims to create a dedicated funding source to support mental health initiatives and research focused on the impacts of social media on youth.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of the Youth Behavioral Health Account, which will finance programs and services designed to improve mental health outcomes for young people. The proposed tax on social media companies is intended to generate revenue specifically for this purpose, ensuring that the financial burden does not fall on taxpayers.

Debate surrounding House Bill 2038 has already begun, with proponents emphasizing the urgent need for action to protect youth mental health. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential economic impact on social media companies and the implications of taxing a sector that plays a significant role in modern communication and business. Some lawmakers argue that the bill could lead to increased costs for consumers or reduced investment in the state.

The implications of this bill extend beyond immediate funding for mental health services. Experts suggest that it could set a precedent for how states regulate social media companies and address public health concerns. If passed, House Bill 2038 may prompt similar legislative efforts in other states, potentially reshaping the landscape of social media regulation and youth mental health support across the nation.

As discussions continue, the bill's future remains uncertain, but its introduction marks a critical step in recognizing and addressing the intersection of technology and mental health in the lives of young people. The Washington legislature's actions in the coming weeks will be closely watched, as they could have lasting effects on both the mental well-being of youth and the operational landscape for social media platforms.