On July 9, 2025, Utah made headlines as state legislators passed the Internet Safety Act, a comprehensive law aimed at protecting children online. The new legislation comes in response to a rise in online threats and harmful content targeting minors, as well as growing concerns about privacy and cybersecurity.The Internet Safety Act includes several key provisions to safeguard children while they navigate the digital landscape. One of the key aspects of the new law is the requirement for all internet service providers (ISPs) to offer parental control tools to help parents monitor and restrict their children's online activities. These tools will allow parents to filter out inappropriate content, set time limits for online usage, and block certain websites.Additionally, the Internet Safety Act mandates that social media platforms and other online services must implement stronger age verification measures to prevent minors from accessing age-inappropriate content. This includes implementing stricter age restrictions for certain features, such as live streaming and direct messaging.Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions to strengthen penalties for individuals who engage in online harassment, cyberbullying, or the distribution of harmful content to minors. Offenders could face fines, community service, or even jail time, depending on the severity of their actions.Utah legislators hope that the Internet Safety Act will not only protect children from online threats but also empower parents to take a proactive role in monitoring their children's internet usage. By providing tools and resources to help parents navigate the digital world, the state aims to create a safer online environment for all Utah residents, especially the most vulnerable members of society.The Internet Safety Act is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, giving ISPs and online platforms time to implement the necessary changes to comply with the new law. Utah has now joined a growing number of states that have taken steps to address internet safety and protect children from online dangers, signaling a broader trend towards greater accountability and regulation in the digital realm.