Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
House Bill 186, introduced in the Texas House of Representatives, proposes restricting access to social media platforms for individuals under 18. The bill requires that social media companies verify each user’s age through a commercial age verification system. Only users who are 18 or older will be permitted to create or maintain accounts.
House Bill 186 was filed in the Texas House of Representatives on November 12, 2024, by Representative Jared Patterson (R-Frisco). The bill passed the House on April 30, 2025, with a vote of 116-25. As of May 5, 2025, it has been referred to the Senate Committee on State Affairs.
Under the bill, companies operating social media platforms must implement systems capable of confirming the user’s age using commercially available methods. The bill defines a social media platform as an online forum that allows users to create a public profile, interact with content, and communicate with others. Exemptions are provided for platforms that serve primarily educational or professional networking purposes.
The legislation prohibits minors from establishing accounts with social media companies. It further authorizes parents or legal guardians to submit written requests to companies to terminate accounts believed to belong to their minor children. Companies must comply with such requests within ten business days.
The bill outlines enforcement mechanisms and authorizes the Texas Attorney General to bring legal action against companies that violate the provisions. Civil penalties may be imposed, and companies found in violation could face fines of up to $10,000 per offense.
House Bill 186 is part of the Texas Legislature’s initiative to regulate online activity involving minors. It is currently under consideration and subject to further legislative action.
Full text and legislative updates are available at
https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/88R/billtext/html/HB01181H.htm
