California Lawmakers Consider Bill Banning Addictive Social Media for Minors

California lawmakers are considering Assembly Bill 1709, a piece of legislation authored by Josh Lowenthal that would prohibit children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on social media platforms with addictive features. The bill seeks to shift the burden of enforcement from parents to the social media companies themselves, arguing that current parental controls are insufficient against platforms engineered for algorithmic amplification and engagement.

Supporters of the measure cite a growing youth mental health crisis, referencing U.S. Surgeon General reports linking heavy social media use to increased risks of depression and anxiety. Additionally, advocates point to physical safety risks, including reports of teenagers being targeted by drug dealers via apps like Snapchat to facilitate the delivery of lethal fentanyl.

The legislative push emphasizes a preventative approach to counter the exploitation and mental health decline associated with addictive platform design. Proponents argue that because platforms are engineered for engagement over safety, the responsibility for protection must be built into the rules governing the companies rather than relying on voluntary corporate action.