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On November 5, 2025, the state of Tennessee announced a new internet law aimed at protecting minors online. The bill, titled the "Online Protection for Minors Act," requires parental consent for certain online activities involving minors.Under the new law, any online platform that collects personal information from individuals under the age of 18 must obtain parental consent before allowing minors to use their services. This includes social media platforms, online gaming sites, and other websites that require users to create accounts or profiles.In addition to requiring parental consent, the law also mandates that websites and apps designed for minors must include privacy settings that allow parents to control their child's online activities. This includes the ability to monitor their child's online interactions, restrict access to certain features or content, and set time limits for usage.Tennessee lawmakers hope that this new legislation will help protect minors from online predators, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content. By requiring parental consent and giving parents more control over their child's online activities, the state aims to create a safer and more secure online environment for minors in Tennessee.The "Online Protection for Minors Act" has received widespread support from parents, educators, and child advocacy groups. Many believe that parents should have the right to oversee their child's online activities and protect them from potential harm on the internet.However, critics of the law argue that it may be difficult to enforce and could potentially infringe on minors' privacy rights. Some worry that requiring parental consent for every online activity could be burdensome for both parents and online platforms.Despite these concerns, Tennessee Governor Mark Johnson signed the bill into law, stating that the protection of minors online is a top priority for the state. The "Online Protection for Minors Act" is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, giving online platforms time to adjust their practices to comply with the new requirements.