Link: California could become the first state to require social media warning labels

A new California bill mandates warning labels on social media to alert users, especially kids and teens, to potential mental health risks. This legislation, AB 56, introduced by Assembly member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and Attorney General Rob Bonta, targets the growing mental health concerns among the youth.

The proposed "black box warning" will be visible to all users during their initial log-in and will reappear weekly. Users must view this warning for at least 90 seconds to enhance awareness of the issues linked to social media usage.

US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy recommended similar warnings last year, in line with tobacco product labels. His proposal, backed by nearly 40 states, addresses the negative impacts of social networks on young people's mental health.

Amid accusations that social media giants are prioritizing profit over well-being by promoting addictive features, Attorney General Bonta emphasizes that while labels are helpful, they are not a complete solution. This initiative is part of broader efforts to combat mental health crises and safeguard children.

Recently, Bonta, along with other state attorneys general, initiated lawsuits against TikTok and Meta. These lawsuits claim that these platforms endanger children's mental health through addictive designs and deceptive practices.

With varied state actions to regulate social media use, there is a unified call for federal regulation through the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). This aims to enhance protective measures for young internet users across the nation. #

--

Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.