California wants to warn children about social networks as it does about tobacco

California is about to introduce a law that would require social networks to display warnings to children about their negative effects on mental health – similar to those on cigarettes.

The AB 56 bill, proposed by Democrat Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, has been approved by the state House of Representatives and is now awaiting a decision by Governor Gavin Newsom.

If the law comes into effect, platforms such as TikTok and Instagram will have to display a 10-second warning when young people log in and a 30-second warning after three hours of use, which will be repeated every hour thereafter.

According to its author, the measure is based on a report by the US Chief Medical Officer, which points to the link between social media and anxiety, insomnia, and body image issues.

Technology companies are sharply criticizing the proposal and warning that it violates the right to access information. If Newsom signs the bill into law, California will join Minnesota, which has already passed similar legislation.

(politico, sie)