California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 656, a law requiring social media platforms to provide users with an accessible and transparent process for deleting their accounts and erasing personal data. The legislation, the first of its kind in the U.S., mandates that account deletion triggers full removal of user information, simplifying what has long been a convoluted procedure.
Newsom’s office highlighted the measure as part of broader efforts to enhance consumer privacy protections. “Your data should be just that — YOURS,” Newsom stated. The law, authored by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth), is described as bipartisan and aims to address the complexity of account deletion, which often involves navigating multiple steps or waiting extended periods for complete removal.
Under AB 656, users will no longer face barriers such as hidden deletion buttons or prolonged processing times. The bill builds on prior consumer protection efforts, including Schiavo’s 2024 “click-to-cancel” law, AB 2863, which streamlined subscription cancellations. Advocates argue the measure empowers individuals to reclaim control over their digital footprints, particularly amid concerns about social media’s impact on mental health and data security.
The legislation also aligns with other state initiatives, such as the DELETE Act (SB 362), set to take effect in 2026, which would allow Californians to erase data held by third-party brokers. Critics of existing policies note that current opt-out mechanisms are cumbersome, requiring repeated actions across platforms. The new law seeks to standardize these processes, ensuring users can manage their information efficiently.
Schiavo emphasized the bill’s importance for families, stating it provides “a clear and easy way to delete their account and personal information from the platform.” The measure has drawn support from consumer advocacy groups, which praised its focus on simplicity and user autonomy.
