FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 18, 2026) – Attorney General Russell Coleman applauded the Kentucky House of Representatives for taking a bold step to better protect Kentucky’s children online. Representative Matt Lockett (R-Nicholasville) introduced House Bill 227 (HB 227) that requires social media and AI platforms to strengthen age verification and parental controls for children 15 and under. It also provides parents with tools to better manage their child’s online experience. Additionally, the bill bans manipulative features like “infinite scrolling” for children, which can keep users glued to screens for hours. The Attorney General would enforce the new law. It also allows parents and the Attorney General to seek civil penalties.
The House Standing Committee on Small Business and Information Technology passed the legislation without opposition on Wednesday.
“We know that excessive screen time poses serious risks for our children’s health and development. By creating responsible safeguards, we can take necessary steps to protect our kids’ mental and physical health,” said Attorney General Coleman. “I’m grateful for Representative Lockett’s strong leadership for Kentucky’s kids, and I respectfully ask all of our legislators to move this legislation quickly.”
“Around the globe, countries are waking up to the destructive nature of social media on our children, and they see it in their best interest to restrict its usage among young people,” said Rep. Lockett. “Social media algorithms pull kids down dangerous rabbit holes, including obscene and predatory content. Our legislation would create reasonable safeguards to protect our kids online. I’m grateful to Attorney General Coleman for standing strong for Kentucky’s children and look forward to working with him to make this bill into law.”
General Coleman is currently engaged in major lawsuits with social media companies like Meta, TikTok and Roblox that have prioritized profits above the safety of children.
The legislation now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration.
Representative Lockett’s bill is cosponsored by Representatives Jennifer Decker (R-Waddy), Shane Baker (R-Somerset), Kim Banta (R-Fort Mitchell), Randy Bridges (R-Paducah), Emily Callaway (R-Louisville), Josh Calloway (R-Irvington), Ryan Dotson (R-Winchester), John Hodgson (R—Fisherville), Thomas Huff (R-Shepherdsville), Mary Beth Imes (R-Murray), Candy Massaroni (R-Bardstown), Marianne Proctor (R-Union), Felicia Rabourn (R-Turners Station), T.J. Roberts (R-Burlington), Nancy Tate (R-Brandenburg) and Walker Thomas (R-Hopkinsville).