Montana's House Bill 925, introduced on March 29, 2025, aims to enhance protections for minors using social media platforms. Titled the "Social Media Youth Protection Act," the bill mandates that social media companies implement an age-assurance system and provide supervisory tools for accounts held by minors. Additionally, it requires parental consent for data privacy settings related to these accounts, reflecting growing concerns about the impact of social media on youth.

The legislation arises from legislative findings that underscore the vulnerability of minors to manipulation through social media's engagement-driven design and curation algorithms. The bill highlights the potential adverse mental health outcomes associated with excessive social media use, including disrupted sleep patterns and negative impacts on academic performance. By establishing these requirements, the bill seeks to mitigate risks and safeguard the well-being of young users.

Debate surrounding House Bill 925 has centered on its implications for privacy and the operational burdens it may impose on social media companies. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect minors in an increasingly digital world, while opponents raise concerns about the feasibility of enforcing age verification and the potential for overreach into personal freedoms.

The bill includes provisions for penalties against non-compliant companies and outlines an appropriation for its implementation, signaling a commitment to enforce these new standards. If passed, House Bill 925 could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, potentially reshaping how social media companies operate in relation to young users.

As discussions continue, the bill's future remains uncertain, but its introduction marks a significant move towards prioritizing youth safety in the digital landscape. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the legislative process, anticipating both the immediate and long-term implications of this proposed law on social media practices and youth engagement.