Idaho Capitol Watch
HB 542: SOCIAL MEDIA – Adds to existing law to establish the Stop Harms from Addictive Social Media Act.
HB 542 creates the Stop Harms from Addictive Social Media Act. It adds a new chapter to Idaho law requiring major social media platforms (those earning over $1 billion annually in advertising revenue) to estimate user ages using usage data. Platforms must obtain verifiable parental consent before creating or maintaining accounts for children age 16 and younger. Addictive features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay video, push notifications, and profile-based feeds must be disabled for these users, along with profile-based targeted advertising. Parents receive options to monitor usage and set time limits. The bill allows easy account termination by minors or parents, creates a private right of action with statutory damages, and permits Attorney General enforcement. The measure was amended in the Senate, passed both chambers, and became effective July 1, 2026. It has no fiscal impact on state or local government.
Status
Effective (July 1, 2026) · Originated in the Idaho House · Introduced January 28, 2026
Sponsors
- STATE AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
- Representative Crane(13A)
Committees
- JRA for Engrossing
- JRA for Printing
Bill history
- March 26, 2026 — House: Reported Enrolled; Signed by Speaker; Transmitted to Senate
- March 26, 2026 — Senate: Received from the House enrolled/signed by Speaker
- March 26, 2026 — Senate: Signed by President; returned to House
- March 27, 2026 — Senate: Returned Signed by the President; Ordered Transmitted to Governor
- March 27, 2026 — Senate: Delivered to Governor at 12:01 p.m. on March 27, 2026
- April 2, 2026 — Senate: Reported Signed by Governor on April 2, 2026
- April 2, 2026 — Senate: Session Law Chapter 268
- July 1, 2026 — Senate: Effective: 07/01/2026
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