Less than 12 hours after TikTok was temporarily banned in the U.S., the app was restored, crediting former President Donald Trump for its return. However, in Indiana, proposed legislation could once again restrict access to popular social media platforms for thousands of children.
If Senate Bill 11 (SB 11) passes, children under 16 in Indiana would need parental consent to access platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. State Senator Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores), the bill’s author, emphasized the need for parental involvement in monitoring children’s online activities.
“This seems to be a pretty easy thing to do,” Bohacek stated, arguing that parents should play a more active role in regulating their children’s social media usage.
Under SB 11, parents would need to upload personal information, such as a credit card number or driver’s license, to provide consent for their children to use these platforms.
The bill recently passed the Senate Judiciary Committee with a 10-1 vote, but not without significant amendments:
- Removed Provisions:
- Parents of bullied children would no longer be able to sue the bully’s parents.
- Parents could not directly sue social media platforms for noncompliance with the law.
- Current Provisions:
- Complaints about violations must be directed to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office, which can pursue legal action against social media companies.
- Platforms found in violation would have 90 days to resolve the issue.
While many Republicans see the bill as a way to protect children, Democrats and privacy advocates have raised concerns.
State Senator Rodney Pol (D-East Chicago) cautioned against requiring platforms to collect more personal data, arguing it could create privacy risks.
Chris Daley of the ACLU of Indiana labeled the bill both unconstitutional and unenforceable, pointing out that minors could bypass restrictions by lying about their age or using VPNs to appear in states without similar laws.
“Any youth who wants to, who’s under 16, can just lie about their age…or use a VPN,” Daley explained.
SB 11 will receive a second reading in the Senate on Tuesday. If approved for a third time, the bill will move to the Indiana House for consideration.
This legislation reflects an ongoing debate over parental rights, privacy, and the role of government in regulating social media use among minors.