STATEHOUSE (March 12, 2026) – A new law co-authored by State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) creates one of Indiana’s strongest frameworks for safeguarding minors on social media.
House Enrolled Act 1408 requires parental consent before children under 16 can open social media accounts, gives parents greater ability to monitor their child’s online activity and restricts addictive or harmful platform features.
King said these provisions are designed to reduce exposure to manipulative algorithms, compulsive engagement loops and unsafe online interactions. Under the law, violations are treated as deceptive acts, giving the state clear enforcement authority.
“Indiana has a duty to protect minors from harm,” King said. “This legislation is designed to give parents more control and ensure these platforms take responsibility for how their products affect children.”
King said these provisions are in response to growing concerns about online exploitation, algorithm‑driven content exposure and the mental health effects of heavy social media use among adolescents.
HEA 1408 aims to protect Hoosier youth from the harmful effects of social media by establishing meaningful guardrails and empowering parents with real oversight tools.
To learn more about HEA 1408, click here.
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
