The Georgia State Senate could soon pass a new law focusing on the use of social media platforms. This new regulation includes requiring minors to seek parental consent before they can create social media accounts.
Georgia Children Might Need Parental Consent Before Using Social Media
According to NBC News, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and Sen. Jason Anavitarte of Dallas-two top Republican officials-want to pass a new law focusing on social media access.
They shared their plan on Monday, Aug. 7, during a news conference, saying that they are seeking to pass the law as soon as 2024.
"It's important that we empower parents. A lot of parents don't know how to restrict content," explained Anavitarte.
The Republican senator said the new law will not allow children younger than 18 years old to create social media accounts without their parent's approval.
Aside from this, the rule will also require social media platforms to verify the age of users creating new accounts.
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Social Media Companies Already Contacted
Via Fox Business, Anavitarte claimed that he already contacted Meta Platforms. He added that, together with Jones, they will discuss their proposed plans with the social media service provider.
AP News reported that once the new law is passed, Georgia will join other U.S. states that require minors to have parental permission before creating social media accounts.
Utah, Texas, and Arkansas already passed similar laws this 2023. California also enacted a law in 2022 to require online service providers to implement better privacy and safety features to protect children.
Because of the worsening online harassment and other harmful content on Twitter (now called X), Facebook, Instagram, and other online platforms, some U.S. officials in Congress also proposed parental consent for minor users.
Warning for Unsafe Social Media
Recently, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a warning. He claimed that social media today is no longer safe for young people.
He even called out tech companies, caregivers, and parents to make immediate actions to protect their children.
General Murthy also asked tech firms to provide more transparency and share their data.
Aside from this, he asked policymakers to regulate social media platforms for safety just like how they do car seats and baby formula.
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