New Georgia law prohibits minors under 16 years of age from using social media without parental consent

• New controversial Georgia social media law.
• It limits social media use for minors.
• How will it affect social media.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed a new law that makes it more difficult for minors under 16 years of age to open a social media account.

They must get permission from a parent or guardian.

According to FoxNews, the new law that passed in both chambers will begin to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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New social media law in Georgia

The new Georgia social media law requires that platforms like TikTok or Instagram must make «commercially reasonable efforts» to verify the age of their new users.

The social media companies must decide how they will obtain the consent from parents of minors under 16 years of age to open an account.

Verification options could include an online form signed by parents or guardians or even a video call.

Social media sites must treat anyone whose age can’t be verified as a minor.

Social media disorder

Governor Kemp said this law was passed to protect children in the state.

He pointed out the risks that access to social media represents for young people, including that it could trigger problems such as addiction or depression.

He stated that the main objective is to protect minor residents of Georgia from cyberbullying, as well as from mental health issues.

Brian Kemp believes that it will make it easier for parents to monitor their kids’ social media activity.

Georgia joins other states passing similar laws

This new law in Georgia is similar to measures that have been passed in other states.

Texas, Louisiana and Utah have passed similar laws. Florida’s law makes the age of consent even lower than Georgia’s.

The Georgia law in question also bans social media in school, in addition to requiring porn sites to verify users are at least 18 years of age.

However, there are several organizations that oppose these bills, saying they violate Georgians’ rights.