Indiana lawmakers on Tuesday passed a sweeping education bill that includes restrictions on social media use by minors and grants the state increased oversight of college degree programs. The bill, which cleared the House in a 67-28 vote along party lines, now returns to the Senate for final consideration, according to reporting from News From The States.
The legislation’s provisions regarding social media access for young people have drawn particular attention. Details of the restrictions were not immediately available, but the bill’s advancement signals a growing legislative focus on the potential harms of social media platforms for children and adolescents. The bill’s passage comes as concerns mount nationally regarding the impact of social media on youth mental health and well-being.
Alongside the social media regulations, the bill introduces a new layer of state authority over degree programs offered by Indiana’s colleges and universities. The specifics of this oversight remain unclear, but the measure represents a significant shift in the balance of power between the state government and higher education institutions. The bill’s proponents argue that increased state control is necessary to ensure that degree programs align with the needs of the Indiana workforce.
The move to increase state oversight of college degrees comes as institutions nationwide face scrutiny over the value and relevance of certain academic offerings. Arkansas State University, for example, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with a Social Media Management Certification, designed to equip students with skills for the “high-demand field” of strategic communications, according to the university’s website. The program includes certifications in Google Analytics and Hootsuite, reflecting an industry focus on measurable results and platform proficiency.
Youngstown State University as well offers a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a Social Media Track, which focuses on content creation and social media management. The curriculum includes website construction, media image management, and the use of photographs and video for messaging, as detailed in the university’s course catalog. Sam Houston State University offers a Master of Arts in Emerging and Social Media, focusing on skills in creative media production, strategic media planning, and audience analysis.
The Indiana bill’s passage through the House was characterized by partisan division, suggesting a contentious debate awaits in the Senate. The bill’s return to the Senate sets the stage for further negotiations and potential amendments before a final vote. The next application date for the Arkansas State program is February 23, 2026, with classes starting March 9, 2026.
