Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1161

Introduced
3/13/26  
Refer
3/13/26  

Caption

An Act to create 100.80 of the statutes; Relating to: online services accessed by minors, minors’ personal data, and granting rule-making authority.

Impact

The proposed legislation will likely lead to significant changes in how companies collect, store, and utilize personal information from minors. It will necessitate compliance with stricter regulations, influencing the way online services design their platforms and manage user data. Additionally, this bill may impose new transparency requirements, ensuring that minors and their guardians are informed about the data involved in online interactions. Overall, AB1161 reflects a growing recognition of the importance of protecting younger users in digital environments.

Summary

AB1161 seeks to regulate online services accessed by minors, placing particular emphasis on the protection of minors' personal data. This bill aims to ensure that children and adolescents using online platforms are safeguarded against data exploitation and harmful content. By granting rule-making authority concerning the management and usage of minors’ personal data, the bill aims to establish clearer standards and practices for companies that cater to younger audiences. This initiative indicates a proactive approach toward contemporary issues surrounding internet safety and data privacy.

Contention

While supporters argue that AB1161 is critical for fostering a safer online environment for minors, some stakeholders raise concerns regarding the potential burden this legislation may place on businesses. Critics argue that the imposition of strict regulations could hinder the availability of online services aimed at younger users and may drive some businesses to limit their outreach to this demographic. The balance between safeguarding minors' rights and ensuring a vibrant digital economy remains a point of contention in discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

WI SB978

Crossfiled An Act to create 100.80 of the statutes; Relating to: online services accessed by minors, minors’ personal data, and granting rule-making authority.

Previously Filed As

WI SB978

Online services accessed by minors, minors’ personal data, and granting rule-making authority.

WI AB342

Grants to hire school mental health professionals who are members of a racial minority group, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB352

Grants to hire school mental health professionals who are members of a racial minority group, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1137

Creating WisEARNS, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1179

Creating WisEARNS, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB815

Creating a blue envelope program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB790

Creating the water fund for our future, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB958

Creating the water fund for our future, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB493

Authorizing community solar programs and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB889

Creating the Wisconsin Climate Corps program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.