Tennessee Senate Bill SB1980

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 35; Title 37; Title 47 and Title 50, relative to minors.

Impact

The bill emphasizes the importance of providing financial security for minors involved in online content creation. It mandates content creators to maintain records related to any minor featured in content, ensuring age verification and detailing the compensation received. Moreover, it obligates creators to set aside a portion of earnings into a trust account for these minors until they reach adulthood. The proposed law aims to empower minors by protecting their likeness and establishing their right to a share of earnings derived from their participation in digital content.

Summary

Senate Bill 1980 seeks to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code to introduce regulations concerning minors engaged in content creation on online platforms. The bill defines a 'content creator' as any individual aged 18 or older who produces digital content for compensation. It stipulates that minors whose likeness, name, or photograph appears significantly in content are considered engaged in content creation and are entitled to protection under this law. This includes establishing their rights to compensation and a structured process for safeguarding their earnings.

Contention

Opposition to SB1980 may arise around concerns regarding implementation and enforcement. Critics might argue that the burden of additional record-keeping and compliance on content creators could hinder the vibrant and diverse content ecosystem present online. There could also be debates on the thresholds established for determining when a minor is actively engaged in content creation, potentially leading to disputes over earnings distribution. Furthermore, challenges might surface in enforcing compliance, particularly among smaller creators or those operating in more informal contexts.