SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan heading to the Illinois Senate could help protect children online.
The proposal sets new restrictions on children's social media accounts and allows parents to have greater control over online actions.
Parents could input their child's age while setting up a new device, and the plan creates default settings for software and websites.
Illinois would ban social media companies from using addictive algorithms for youth, stop on-platform location sharing and prohibit scam financial transactions with strangers online.
"Rather than transmitting data about a child's birthday directly to each app, House Bill 5511 gives parents the peace of mind that comes from knowing that their child is not being fed addictive content in a way that does not compromise their privacy," said Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview).
Sponsors said parents would be able to adjust restrictions to meet their child's needs and better monitor online activity.
House Republicans said they appreciate the intent of this proposal, but they argue it does not go far enough to keep youth safe.
"There's a lot in the bill. I'm looking at it thinking it may be something that I can support," said Rep. Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva). "There are things in it, though I know you're looking to address in the Senate. I won't be voting for it today. But as it progresses through the Senate and I have further discussion with you, I'll keep you updated on where I'll end up being."
House Bill 5511 passed out of the House on an 82-27 vote. This measure is a top priority for Gov. JB Pritzker.
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