JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Some Mississippi lawmakers are defending the state’s new age verification law after a social media app cut off Mississippians’ access because of it.

Bluesky temporarily blocked access in Mississippi last week. The move comes after House Bill 1126 became law this summer. The law requires social media platforms to verify the age of users before granting access.

Bluesky officials said following the law means collecting and storing sensitive personal information, monitoring underage users and taking on costs they can’t afford.

State Rep. Fabian Nelson (D-District 66) insisted that the law’s intent is clear.

“We definitely don’t want to lose any, you know, any social media platform. We want to make sure that we’re a business-friendly state for every single person. And so, that’s not our intent to run anybody out of business. Our intent is making sure that our children are safe online, and we’re going to support that at whatever cost necessary,” he said.

Nelson believes smaller platforms can find affordable ways to comply.

Experts said the situation highlights the challenges smaller tech companies face when new regulations come into effect.

“This contrast underscores the precarious position of smaller technology companies when confronted with sweeping regulatory mandates: they may lack the technological or legal resources and infrastructure to adapt without undermining their core values or exposing users to risks,” said Steven Herman, executive director at the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation at the University of Mississippi.

While the law aims to protect young users from online dangers, it also sparks a debate about balancing safety with the commercial survival of smaller social platforms.