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TO CREATE A PRIVATE RIGHT OF ACTION AGAINST A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM THAT CAUSES HARM; AND TO IMPOSE A CIVIL PENALTY ON A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM THAT KNOWINGLY AND WILLFULLY CONTRIBUTES TO A MINOR'S SUICIDE OR SUICIDE ATTEMPT.
In one paragraph
Arkansas's SB 612 (Act 901 of 2025) adds Arkansas Code 4-88-1501 and following. A social media platform may not use a design, algorithm or feature that it knows, or should have known through reasonable care, causes a user to purchase a controlled substance, develop an eating disorder, commit or attempt suicide, or develop or sustain an addiction to the platform. "Promoting" content to a minor (under 16) includes algorithmic promotion based on previous searches or engagement. The act creates a private right of action for harm and a civil penalty for a platform that knowingly and willfully contributes to a minor's suicide or attempted suicide. Act date April 21, 2025.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
Social media platforms serving Arkansas users face liability if their algorithms or design features cause addiction, eating disorders or self-harm.
Key provisions
- Ark. Code 4-88-1502: no design, algorithm or feature known to cause drug purchases, eating disorders, suicide or addiction
- "Promoting" includes algorithmic promotion of content based on previous search or engagement
- Private right of action for harm caused by the platform
- Civil penalty for knowingly and willfully contributing to a minor's suicide or attempt
Latest legislative action
Apr 21, 2025. Notification that SB612 is now Act 901
Topics and industries
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Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error