Michigan’s Legislative Push to Safeguard Children from Social Media Exploitation
Amid growing concerns over children’s safety online, Michigan’s lawmakers are aiming to implement protective measures against social media exploitation. A newly introduced legislative package, known as Kids Over Clicks, seeks to shield minors from the potentially harmful effects of social media and artificial intelligence.
Unveiled by state Senate Democrats on Wednesday, the bills (SB 757-760) propose several measures, including restricting children’s access to AI companion chatbots. Alisha Meneely of the Michigan Kids Code Coalition remarked on the pervasive issue, stating, “Social media corporations intentionally flood our kids’ feeds with content designed to keep them addicted, glued to their screens, engaged and online for as long as possible, in order to harvest private information.”
This legislative effort is part of a broader national trend, wherein states across the U.S. have enacted laws aimed at controlling children’s access to social media. These measures include introducing time limits and imposing outright bans. However, these laws have faced significant opposition from industry groups.
Amy Bos, Vice President of Government Affairs for NetChoice, which represents social media industry interests, argues that Michigan’s proposals infringe upon constitutional rights. “There are many constitutional options lawmakers have for creating a safer environment for kids online,” said Bos. “Unconstitutional laws protect no one, and we hope to work with Michigan policymakers on lawful solutions to increase digital safety.”
Legal challenges are not uncommon; federal judges have previously struck down or blocked similar regulations in states like Ohio and Arkansas.
While opposing these legislative measures, Bos emphasized the importance of alternative strategies, such as funding law enforcement to combat online predators, incorporating digital safety education in schools, and launching public awareness campaigns.
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