Indiana Lawmakers Propose Social Media Restrictions for Kids

Lawmakers aim to limit underage access to social media platforms without parental consent.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Indiana lawmakers are working to finalize a plan that could restrict access to social media for kids 16 and under. The proposed legislation would require social media platforms to obtain parental consent before allowing underage users. While some parents support the idea, others argue that education and parental involvement are more important than just restrictions.

Why it matters

The proposed legislation is an attempt to address concerns about the negative impacts of social media on young people's mental health and well-being. However, there are also questions about the effectiveness of such restrictions and potential First Amendment challenges.

The details

Earlier this month, the Indiana House amended a Senate bill to create social media restrictions for minors. The amended version would prohibit kids 16 and under from accessing popular social media sites without parental or guardian consent. The Senate has since dissented from those changes, but lawmakers remain optimistic that a similar plan will ultimately pass.

  • The Indiana General Assembly is set to adjourn on February 27, 2026.
  • The House amended the Senate bill with social media restrictions earlier this month.

The players

Rod Bray

Indiana Senate President Pro Tem (R-Martinsville).

Shelli Yoder

Indiana Senate Minority Leader (D-Bloomington).

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What they’re saying

“I think I see a good path for that.”

— Rod Bray, Indiana Senate President Pro Tem (fox59.com)

“It's hard to say what that language is going to look like and just how far it will go. We'll look for that language, see exactly on how it lands with Hoosiers, and vote according to our districts.”

— Shelli Yoder, Indiana Senate Minority Leader (fox59.com)

“I think that's a good idea, actually.”

— Rebecca Stratton, Parent (fox59.com)

“I agree with it. A kid will find some negativity on social media before they find some positivity on social media.”

— Lorenzo Lee, Parent (fox59.com)

“Just because parents know doesn't mean it's safe, so I think education is more important than just restrictions. Everything changes so fast, and it's hard for older generations to keep up. Kids will ultimately know more than us when it comes to technology, so we just need to make an effort to keep up and stay informed.”

— Alexis Coffey, Parent (fox59.com)

What’s next

The Indiana General Assembly will adjourn on February 27, 2026, and lawmakers are working to address potential First Amendment issues before finalizing the proposed social media restrictions.

The takeaway

The proposed social media restrictions for minors in Indiana highlight the ongoing debate around balancing child safety and privacy concerns with free speech and technological advancements. While some parents support the idea, others argue that education and active parenting are more effective approaches than government regulation.