Nebraska's Legislature Bill 504, introduced on April 11, 2025, aims to enhance the online safety of minors by imposing strict regulations on how covered online services handle personal data. The bill's primary focus is to limit data collection and usage to only what is necessary for the specific online services minors engage with, thereby addressing growing concerns over privacy and data exploitation in the digital age.

Key provisions of the bill include prohibiting targeted advertising to minors, restricting the retention of personal data, and mandating that any data collected for age verification must be deleted after use. Additionally, the bill requires online services to provide clear notifications when collecting precise geolocation data and restricts the use of notifications and alerts during specific hours to protect minors during school hours and at night.

The legislation has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that it is a crucial step toward safeguarding children's privacy online, while opponents raise concerns about the potential impact on businesses that rely on data collection for revenue. Amendments have been proposed to balance the interests of online services with the need for robust protections for minors, but discussions remain ongoing.

The implications of Bill 504 are significant, as it sets a precedent for how online services operate in relation to minors. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could lead to a shift in industry standards, prompting other states to consider similar legislation. The bill's focus on high default privacy settings and parental monitoring options reflects a growing recognition of the need for enhanced digital safety measures.

As the Nebraska State Legislature continues to deliberate on Bill 504, its potential to reshape the landscape of online interactions for minors remains a critical point of discussion, with advocates urging swift action to protect vulnerable users in an increasingly digital world.