Illinois lawmakers have introduced a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing consumer protection in the digital age. Senate Bill 0049, proposed by Senator Sue Rezin, seeks to amend the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act by mandating high-impact social media companies to provide accessible customer support services for reporting harmful content.

The bill, introduced on January 13, 2025, stipulates that these companies must offer a no-cost customer support service that allows users to report content they believe is illegal or violates the company's terms of service. Notably, the legislation requires companies to respond to customer inquiries within one business day and to actively communicate the steps taken to resolve issues within three business days. If a resolution is not reached, companies must maintain communication with the customer every three business days until the matter is resolved or deemed unsolvable.

One of the bill's key provisions is the enforcement mechanism, which empowers the Illinois Attorney General to take action against companies that fail to comply. Violators could face fines of $1,000 per day for each infraction, with collected fines directed to a fund supporting mental health awareness initiatives in the state.

The introduction of SB0049 has sparked discussions among lawmakers, consumer advocates, and social media companies. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to hold high-impact social media platforms accountable for the content shared on their sites and to protect users from harmful material. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential burden on companies and the feasibility of implementing such extensive customer support systems.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications could be far-reaching. If passed, SB0049 may set a precedent for how social media companies operate in Illinois and potentially influence similar legislation in other states. The focus on mental health awareness funding also highlights a growing recognition of the impact of online content on users' well-being.

With an effective date set for January 1, 2026, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential to reshape the landscape of consumer protection in the digital realm.