Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Brian Schatz, Ted Cruz, and Chris Murphy have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at safeguarding children from the potential dangers of social media. The proposed legislation, named the Kids Off Social Media Act, seeks to establish a minimum age of 13 for social media use and restrict platforms from using algorithms to target content to users under 17.

Senator Britt highlighted the connection between increased social media usage among youth and mental health issues: "There’s no doubt our country is in the throes of a mental health crisis, and the rise of social media usage among children and teenagers is inextricably tied to this issue."

Senator Schatz emphasized the urgency of addressing these concerns: "There is no good reason for a nine-year-old to be on Instagram or Snapchat. The growing evidence is clear: social media is making kids more depressed, more anxious, and more suicidal."

Senator Cruz underscored parental concerns about online threats: "Every parent I know is concerned about the online threats to kids—from predators to videos promoting self-harm, risky behavior, or low self-esteem."

Senator Murphy pointed out how companies prioritize profits over children's well-being: "Everyone knows how harmful social media can be to kids. As a parent, I’ve seen firsthand how these platforms use intentionally addictive algorithms."

The bill has garnered support from several other senators including Peter Welch, Ted Budd, John Fetterman, Angus King, Mark Warner, and John Curtis. It addresses ongoing mental health challenges affecting young people by prohibiting children under 13 from creating or maintaining accounts on social media platforms and restricting algorithmically targeted content for those under 17.

Parents show significant backing for this initiative. A survey by Count on Mothers revealed that over 90% agree with setting a minimum age for social media use at 13. Furthermore, Pew Research indicates that many parents are concerned about their teens' exposure to explicit content online.

Numerous organizations such as the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and National Association of School Nurses support the act.

The full text of the Kids Off Social Media Act can be accessed publicly.