California's Social Media Regulation Bill Aims to Safeguard Children
California Takes Action on Social Media
In a major move towards social media regulation, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill aimed at protecting children from what he describes as dangerous social media addiction. The newly enacted Protecting Our Kids from Social Media Addiction Act will bar online services from delivering an addictive feed to users under the age of 18 unless parental consent is obtained.
Key Features of the Bill
- The bill defines an addictive feed as an algorithmically driven selection of content that promotes continuous user engagement.
- Notifications from platforms will be restricted during certain hours to prevent late-night usage.
- Parents will have control over their child's social media settings, including the ability to limit access and notifications.
Public Reaction
Supporters of the bill argue that it will significantly bolster kids’ online safety, while critics have raised concerns about potential breaches of First Amendment rights. As the law prepares to take effect, there are ongoing debates about its implications in a digital age where social media is ubiquitous.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.