Introduction
Utah has introduced new legal protections for child influencers on social media platforms in response to concerns about their welfare, particularly in the wake of allegations of serious abuse involving YouTube personality Ruby Franke’s family.
Background of the Case
Ruby Franke, who ran the popular YouTube channel ‘8 Passengers’, was arrested along with her ex-husband on multiple counts of aggravated child abuse. This development raised significant concerns about the protection of children featured in online video content.
Details of the New Law
The legislation mandates that earnings of child influencers from social media should go to a trust account controlled by a neutral third party until the child reaches adulthood. This ensures that the financial rewards gained from their online presence benefit them directly and are not misappropriated.
Impact and Implications
This new legislation in Utah is seen as a groundbreaking step towards protecting child influencers, who are often vulnerable due to their exposure on digital platforms.
Reactions and Comments
Authorities and child welfare advocates have welcomed the law, emphasizing its potential to safeguard child interests in the rapidly growing and largely unregulated world of social media entertainment.