Utah is the first US state to require social media companies to get parents’ permission before children can use their apps. The state also requires these companies to check users’ ages and ensure they are at least 18 years old. This is because social media can harm children’s mental health. So, kids will need their parents’ approval to use apps like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

In Utah, starting on March 1, 2024, two new laws will allow parents to check what their kids are doing online, including their social media posts and private messages. Children will not be allowed to use social media between 10:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. unless their parents say it’s okay. Also, social media companies will not be able to collect data or show ads to children. Governor Spencer Cox believes that these laws will protect children’s mental health, but some people worry that they could limit free speech and put children in danger. Facebook’s parent company says it has tools to keep children safe on its platform, but TikTok’s CEO is facing Congress, and many US politicians are calling for tech companies to stop collecting data from children. California has already passed a similar law, and five other states are considering doing the same.