Technology (Social Media)

This Iowa bill (SF 2159) requires commercial online platforms (like social media) to implement age verification for users under 18 when hosting content deemed "harmful to minors" or prohibited material. It defines prohibited material as child sexual abuse material, obscene content, and content harmful to minors that lacks age verification. Platforms must use approved methods (e.g., digital ID checks or third-party verification) to block minors from accessing such content, with strict rules against retaining user data after verification. Violators face civil lawsuits by minors or their guardians for actual damages, attorney fees, and minimum $5,000 penalties per violation.

This bill requires Iowa public schools to adopt policies restricting personal electronic device use during classroom instruction starting in 2025, with specific guidelines for device storage, emergency communication, and exemptions for students with individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans. It also mandates that health classes in grades six and eight include instruction about social media's effects, as specified in amended curriculum standards (sections 256.11, subsections 3 and 4). School districts must develop model policies for device use, and teachers must receive professional development to deliver the new social media curriculum. The law directly affects all public school students in grades six through eight and their educators, with implementation beginning in the 2025-2026 school year.

This bill requires Iowa school districts to adopt policies restricting student use of personal electronic devices during classroom instruction by the 2025 school year. It mandates that health classes in grades six through eight include age-appropriate instruction about the effects of social media. The policies must cover device storage, emergency communication methods, and exceptions for students with individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans. Schools must also develop model policies for device use and provide teacher training on social media effects, as outlined in updated health curriculum standards.

SF 370 requires Iowa public schools to adopt policies restricting student use of personal electronic devices during classroom instruction starting in the 2025-2026 school year. It mandates that health classes in grades six and eight include instruction on the effects of social media, and directs school districts to develop model policies by May 1, 2025. The bill also requires schools to provide professional development for teachers on social media effects and establish clear protocols for device storage, emergency communication, and disciplinary procedures. These changes apply to all public school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools in Iowa.