Texas could become the first state in the United States to completely ban the use of social media by anyone under the age of 18, Engadget reports. The bill has already passed the Senate committee and will soon be put to a vote. If passed by June 2, it would take effect after being signed by the governor.
The bill would require age verification for all users who create social media accounts, and would block accounts already created by minors. Parents would also be able to request the deletion of their children's accounts, while platforms would have 10 days to comply or face fines.
Texas isn't the only state seeking to restrict young people's access to social media. Florida has already passed a law that bans social media for children under 14 and requires parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds. However, Texas' law is much stricter.
Despite support from lawmakers, the initiative is controversial. Supporters believe it will help protect the mental health of young people, while critics call the law a violation of free speech and predict lawsuits against its implementation.