Louisiana Requires Parental Consent for Minors' Internet Use

Louisiana lawmakers passed a bill banning minors from creating their own social media accounts without parental consent. The bill's broad definition of "interactive computer services" could also prevent minors from accessing popular online games and registering for email addresses. Parents would also be able to cancel their children's existing account terms of service contracts. The bill would go into effect on August 1st, 2022, if signed by Governor John Bel Edwards. Some have criticized the bill for violating First Amendment rights and potentially harming marginalized children's access to beneficial online resources.