SB612

Senate Bill 612 seeks to regulate social media platforms by prohibiting the use of designs, algorithms, or features that the platform knows or should know lead minors to purchase controlled substances, develop eating disorders, attempt suicide, or become addicted to the platform. It establishes a private right of action, allowing parents or guardians to sue social media companies if a minor commits or attempts suicide resulting in significant bodily or cognitive harm after being exposed to content promoted by the platform. The bill imposes civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation for platforms that knowingly and willfully contribute to such harms. It provides for various damages, including medical costs, funeral expenses, and punitive damages, alongside mandatory coverage of attorney's fees. Platforms are given a 30-day window to correct identified risks to avoid certain liabilities, excluding cases involving suicide. Finally, the bill includes exceptions for content created entirely by third parties and protects conduct shielded by the First Amendment or the Arkansas Constitution.