California AB 1709, a ban on social media for under‑16, signed into law

What happened

AB 1709 was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. The law imposes a functional ban on social media use for people under the age of 16 and requires age‑verification. Critics say the ban will increase data collection and limit free expression for minors.

Why it matters for trust and compliance

• Its status is signed. It is enacted but may not be in force yet. Check the effective date before planning around it.
• The law restricts minors' access to social media and raises privacy and free‑speech concerns.

Who is affected

Recommended actions

1. Review consent, cookie and tracking practices against the requirement.
2. Check that privacy notices describe the practices this addresses.
3. Confirm access, correction, deletion and opt-out requests are handled within the required time.
4. Review age assurance and protections for minors' data.