On 25 March 2025, the Children's Online Safety Act of 2025 (S.B. 722) was introduced to the North Carolina Senate. The Children’s Online Safety Act would establish 3 new authorities in North Carolina to oversee online child safety. First, the Online Safety Division within the Department of Justice would investigate complaints, issue standards and guidelines, and coordinate advisory panels on internet safety. Second, the Cyberbullying Unit within the State Bureau of Investigation would operate a toll-free helpline and collaborate with the Department of Justice on enforcement. Third, the Online Child Safety Commission would function as an independent regulator with powers to issue binding regulations, investigate violations, and oversee platform compliance. The Commission would also lead public education, coordinate with other agencies, and produce annual reports, research, and policy recommendations.
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