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Congress·In Committee·3 months ago

Congress Proposes Ban on Disappearing Messages for Minors and New Parental Controls for Social Media

Also known as: SMK Act of 2025

Legislative Progress

✓ Filed
Review
House
Senate
President

Impact Analysis

Scores: 1 = low, 5 = highSentiment: -5 to +5 (net benefit)

Key Points

  • This bill would stop social media companies from letting kids under 17 use "disappearing" messages that delete themselves automatically. This is meant to help parents see what is being sent to children and prevent people from hiding harmful conversations.
  • Social media apps would have to give parents tools to manage who can message their children. Parents could see a list of approved contacts and would get a notification to approve or deny any new person who tries to send their child a private message.
  • For children under 13, private messaging would be turned off by default. A parent would have to give official permission and verify their identity before their child could start using direct messages on any social media platform.
  • App stores would be required to show clear warnings to parents before a child downloads an app that has private messaging features. This ensures parents know exactly what kind of communication tools are included in the apps their kids are using.
  • The Federal Trade Commission and state officials would have the power to fine companies that don't follow these rules. Most of these changes would start within one year of the bill becoming law.
Technology DigitalCivil Rights

Milestones

3 milestones5 actions
Dec 11, 2025House

Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

Dec 11, 2025House

Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held

Nov 21, 2025House

Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade.

Nov 21, 2025House

Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Nov 21, 2025

Introduced in House

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

SMK Act of 2025

Bill NumberHR 6257
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionForwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(1)
D: 1

Analysis generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, this should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always verify information with official government sources.