Social media companies now have to ensure users are 18+ due to new state law

Among the 50 bills passed by the Texas Legislature during special sessions is one known as the SCOPE Act, Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment.

It's House Bill 18 which requires social media companies to make sure anyone opening an account is 18 or older. A parent or guardian has to provide consent for a minor to sign up for any social media account. That consent can be given through regular mail, an electronic scan, or a video call to verify government-issued identification.

Sites cannot allow minors to make any purchases and they have to block or filter anything harmful to prevent physical, emotional, and developmental harm, such as suicide, eating disorders, and sexual exploitation. Violations can result in a penalty of $10,000.

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