Consumer protection; access by minors to certain platform portions restricted; hours for sending notifications to covered minors limited; default platform settings on certain platforms required; mechanism for more stringent optional settings required; annual disclosure of certain data by covered operators required; violations a deceptive trade practice

HB 173 requires online platforms (like social media) to restrict algorithmic recommendations and content prioritization for minors under 18 unless parental consent is obtained or age is verified. It limits notification hours for minors, sets default platform settings to restrict access during certain times, and mandates tools for parents to enable stricter controls. Platforms must annually disclose specific data and face penalties under Alabama’s Deceptive Trade Practices Act for violations. The bill directly affects minors using covered platforms and the operators of those platforms.