The Journal.
Why Utah Is Regulating Mom Influencers
Mar 31, 2025
Zusha Elinson, a WSJ reporter, delves into the fallout from the Ruby Franke scandal, where a popular Utah mom influencer was imprisoned for child abuse. The discussion highlights a new law aimed at protecting children in influencer content, reflecting Utah's unique cultural values. Elinson shares insights into the struggle between family dynamics and the ethical responsibilities of content creators. She also touches on the difficulties faced by children in influencer families, emphasizing the need for legislative changes in this growing industry.
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Quick takeaways
- Utah's new law mandates that families earning over $150,000 from social media content fund their children's future to enhance their protection.
- The Ruby Franke scandal has sparked a societal shift towards recognizing children's rights and safety in the influencer culture.
Deep dives
The Rise of Mom Influencers in Utah
Utah has seen a significant surge in family-oriented social media influencers, particularly mothers who share intimate aspects of their lives. These influencers showcase traditional home activities such as cooking, cleaning, and gardening, tapping into viewers' fascination with family dynamics. The growth of this influencer culture has transformed into a lucrative business, with many families earning substantial incomes through advertising and brand partnerships on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. This trend is influenced by Utah's family-centric culture, largely shaped by the state's significant population of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which promotes both large families and home-based financial contributions.
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