Kids Online Safety Act

The Kids Online Safety Act would require websites, social media platforms, and other online services to establish policies protecting children and teens from various harms. The bill would apply to platforms that allow users to create accounts and share content. If enacted, platforms would need to implement tools and safeguards such as limiting communication with other users, preventing exposure to harmful content, and protecting against compulsive usage patterns. The bill would also require platforms to disclose information about their safety practices and undergo audits to verify compliance. The legislation would establish a Kids Online Safety Council to provide recommendations to Congress on emerging risks and best practices for protecting minors online. Enforcement would be handled by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general. The bill is currently under committee consideration and has not yet been voted on by the full House.