New California law could change how kids consume social media forever

California kids could soon find social media less addictive under a pair of bills targeting features designed to keep them scrolling.

The proposals, AB 1709 and AB 2, cleared the State Senate Appropriations Committee this week and could reach Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk before the legislative session ends Aug. 31, reported KCRA.

AB 1709 would prohibit social media platforms from offering addictive features to users under 16, while AB 2 would allow parents and children to sue platforms for civil penalties and damages if a minor is harmed.

Assemblyman Josh Lowenthal — the Long Beach Democrat behind both bills — said heightening concern over children’s relationship with social media has crossed political and demographic lines.

“There’s really been a sea change that’s taking place over the last couple of years. 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 told California Politics 360, as cited by KCRA.

“I’m worried about my kids, and we really need to do something.”

The legislation targets features like auto-scroll, infinite scroll, and notifications, which Lowenthal believes contribute to social media addiction.

Children spend an average of five hours a day on social media, he said, arguing that when weekends and holidays are included, many spend more time on the platforms than in school.

AB 1709 wouldn’t ban children from using social media altogether — rather, platforms would offer options like chronological timelines without mainstream features.

The bills come as governments worldwide consider how to limit children’s exposure to social media.

In his State of the State address, Newsom highlighted Australia’s restrictions on children’s access to social media and called for California to do more to address the issue.

Some youth advocacy groups — including LGBTQ and neurodivergent communities — worry the legislation could make it harder for young people to connect online.

Efforts to regulate social media have also faced legal challenges from tech companies. The tech industry opposes the bills, citing concerns about potential lawsuits and First Amendment issues.

The full State Senate will decide within the next two weeks whether the legislation moves forward and reaches Newsom for signature.

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