Committee backs bill requiring affirmative parental consent to use children's images online

The Children Committee voted to report SB 344 to the floor after the sponsor described the bill as a straightforward protection for children’s safety online.

Chair summarized the measure as requiring active parental consent for the use of a child's image on social media or in settings where passive consent by businesses previously prevailed. Representative Dauphine and others said prior testimony described dangers associated with wide dissemination of children’s images and expressed support for the bill.

Why it matters: Proponents said affirmative consent would give parents control over how images of minors are used by organizations, businesses and events and help shield children from potential harms associated with public dissemination of their likenesses.

Committee action: Members moved that SB 344 (protecting children's safety by requiring affirmative consent by a parent or guardian for the use of a child's likeness on social media) be reported joint favorable to the floor. The roll call recorded numerous yes votes; the clerk recorded the action in committee and the measure will proceed to the next stage of the legislative process.

Next steps: The bill will be considered on the floor; sponsors said they will continue to engage stakeholders as the measure advances.