(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana lawmakers are racing to finalize potential restrictions on children's access to social media before the legislative session ends later this week.
A revised version of Senate Bill 199 would prohibit children age 16 and younger from using major social media platforms without parental consent. The proposal has hit procedural hurdles, however, after the Senate rejected House amendments over concerns they were not related to the original bill.
Despite the setback, Senate President Pro Tem Rod Bray said he believes a similar plan could still pass before lawmakers adjourn on Feb. 27.
Under the proposal, social media companies -- not parents -- would be responsible for verifying consent before minors could create or maintain accounts.
Parents appear divided. Some support stronger controls, saying online platforms expose children to harmful content. Others argue restrictions alone will not solve the problem and emphasize the need for education and parental involvement.
Lawmakers also acknowledge the proposal could face First Amendment challenges and say they are reviewing similar laws in other states to avoid legal pitfalls.
If approved, the measure would affect thousands of Indiana families and could force major social media platforms to change how they operate for younger users in the state.