Data, privacy and AI rules

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California social media account deletion

In force California · In force Jan 1, 2026 · no upcoming deadlines

Deadlines

Takes effectJan 1 · 10 months ago · Source
Takes effectDefault effective date for 2025 regular-session statutes.
MilestoneOct 8, 2025 · 13 months ago · Source
Signed by GovernorChaptered as Chapter 464, Statutes of 2025.

Summaries for reference, not legal advice. Check the official text.

What it does

Social media platforms must offer a clear and conspicuous button to delete an account and must not obstruct deletion. A request to delete an account counts as a CCPA request to delete the user's personal information.

Who it applies to
Social media platforms with California users.
Penalties
Enforced through the CCPA framework for the deletion request; see statute.
Enforced by
California Attorney General and California Privacy Protection Agency
Official name
Account Cancellation (AB 656)
Citation
Stats. 2025, ch. 464
Topics
Privacy
Verified 2026-09-25
Research notes

Effective date is California's default January 1 rule; the bill has no special date.

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Questions about California social media account deletion
What are the California social media account deletion compliance deadlines?
Oct 8, 2025: Signed by Governor. Jan 1, 2026: Takes effect.
When does California social media account deletion take effect?
California social media account deletion took effect on Jan 1, 2026.
Who does California social media account deletion apply to?
Social media platforms with California users.
What are the penalties under California social media account deletion?
Enforced through the CCPA framework for the deletion request; see statute.