United States of America: Act concerning Social Media and Online Services, Products, and Features (SB 1295) including consumer protection regulation enters into force with grace period

On 1 July 2025, the Act Concerning Social Media Platforms and Online Services, Products and Features enters into force with a grace period. The Act mandates that by 1 January 2026, owners of social media platforms must incorporate online safety centres providing users with cyberbullying prevention resources, access to behavioural health materials, mental health service referrals, and information on the mental health impacts of social media use. It also requires the establishment of cyberbullying policies. Additionally, controllers offering online services, products, or features to known or reasonably inferred minors must avoid practices that present a heightened risk of harm, such as profiling or targeted advertising using minors’ personal data. The Bill requires data protection and impact assessments addressing these risks and prohibits manipulative consent mechanisms or system features that prolong minors' usage. The Act further includes provisions for broadband affordability, lottery vendor licensing, and online sports wagering controls.