Two California bills that seek to limit the addictive features on social media platforms for minors have cleared a key legislative hurdle and could soon reach Gov. Gavin Newsom's desk. The proposals, AB 1709 and AB 2, passed the State Senate Appropriations Committee this week and are eligible for a vote by the full Senate before the legislative session concludes on August 31.
AB 1709 would prohibit social media companies from offering features such as auto-scroll, infinite scroll, and notifications to users under the age of 16. Assemblyman Josh Lowenthal, the Long Beach Democrat behind the legislation, stated that concerns over children's engagement with social media have garnered bipartisan support. He noted that parents across various demographics share a common desire for regulation and action due to worries about their children's online habits.
"There’s really been a sea change that’s taking place over the last couple of years," Lowenthal said. "And parents up and down the state, across the aisle from every geography, every religion, every background that you can think of, all want the same thing. They want regulation. They want action. They’re worried about their kids. And I say that not just as a legislator but as a dad."
Lowenthal indicated that children spend an average of five hours per day on social media, a figure that rises on weekends and holidays, potentially exceeding the time many spend in school. He believes features like infinite scroll and automated notifications contribute to problematic usage patterns.
AB 1709 does not aim to ban social media access for minors but would instead require platforms to offer alternative viewing options, such as chronological timelines, that exclude engagement-driving features. This legislative effort aligns with a growing global trend of governments considering measures to restrict children's exposure to social media. Governor Newsom previously highlighted Australia's social media restrictions for children in his State of the State address, urging California to take further action.
However, the proposed legislation faces opposition. Some youth advocacy groups, including those representing LGBTQ and neurodivergent communities, have expressed concerns that the bills could impede young people's ability to connect online. The tech industry has also voiced opposition, citing potential legal challenges and First Amendment concerns.