Utah has implemented new protections for the children of online content creators following the child abuse conviction of Ruby Franke, a popular YouTube personality. The new law allows adults to remove digital content featuring them as minors and requires parents to set aside money for children featured in content. Franke’s ex-husband, Kevin Franke, regrets allowing their children to be filmed and used for profit, leading to the abuse case. The Frankes were known for their “8 Passengers” channel, showcasing their family life in Utah, where family blogging is popular.
The poorly regulated content creation industry has led to abuse cases like the Franke’s. Ruby Franke and her accomplice, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested on child abuse charges after Ruby’s son escaped and was found emaciated and injured. In journal entries, Ruby blamed her son’s behavior on possession and described months of abuse. The women were each sentenced to up to 30 years in prison.
The eldest Frankes child, Shari, described how her mother prioritized views and content over the well-being of her children, leading to abuse. Legislators in Utah hope the new law will prevent similar cases by requiring earnings from content featuring children to be placed in a trust fund for them. The case sparked a Hulu documentary and support from the children for the new law. Kevin Franke has sought custody of his children and his youngest daughter, Eve, wrote a statement urging lawmakers to protect children from exploitation in the online content creation industry.
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