AL HB235

Prohibits social media platforms from allowing individuals under 16 years of age to create accounts, effective January 1, 2026.

Requires social media platforms to use a commercially reasonable age verification process for individuals attempting to create accounts, effective January 1, 2026.

Designates violations as deceptive trade practices enforceable by the Alabama Attorney General under Chapter 19 of Title 8 of the Code of Alabama 1975.

Imposes civil penalties of up to $50,000 per violation, plus reasonable attorney fees and court costs, with potential punitive damages for consistent patterns of knowing or reckless violations.

Applies to online forums, websites, or applications that allow users to upload or view content and employ algorithms to select content for users, covering platforms serving Alabama residents.