The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) is presenting its case against House Bill 186 to the Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs. The bill mandates social media platforms to verify users' ages, ensuring they are at least 18 before creating an account. This requirement poses significant conflicts with existing Texas contract law and raises First Amendment concerns.
Under current Texas law, minors can enter into certain contracts, with the option to cancel if necessary. HB 186 would disrupt this by prohibiting all minors from creating social media accounts, irrespective of parental consent or purpose. Such a blanket restriction could create a double standard and limit young Texans' ability to engage in online communication, education, and public life participation.
The bill also presents constitutional challenges. Restricting social media access based solely on age could limit young Texans' engagement with information, self-expression, and community building. Similar laws have been blocked by courts in Arkansas and Ohio for being unconstitutional under the First Amendment. HB 186 risks following this problematic path by broadly restricting access to platforms considered public forums in today's society.
Megan Stokes, State Policy Director for CCIA, stated: “HB 186 conflicts with Texas contract law and undermines teens’ rights to access information, express themselves, and participate in today’s digital economy. A 14-year-old can legally work in retail or food service in Texas, but this bill would prevent them from even having a social media account. HB 186 is a flawed proposal, one that censors speech rather than supporting families with tools and education.”