New Texas laws include controversial measure on online safety for minors [Video]

HOUSTON – Several new laws took effect in Texas this week, including the SCOPE Act, which aims to enhance online safety for children. However, a federal judge has partially blocked the law.

The Scope Act, officially known as the Securing Children Online Through Parental Empowerment Act, imposes new requirements on digital service providers, especially major social media platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube.

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Under the law, these platforms must implement stricter rules for users under 18, including verifying the age of minors through their parents or guardians, banning minors from making online purchases, and prohibiting the collection of geolocation data, and targeted advertising for young users. Additionally, providers must offer tools for parents to monitor their children’s online activities.

According to the Texas Attorney General’s website, a violation …