The Massachusetts House is set to vote on a bill that would ban social media access for young minors and impose restrictions on cell phone use in schools, according to legislative sources. The proposed measures aim to address growing concerns about the mental health and academic impacts of digital platforms on children.
The bill, which has garnered bipartisan support, would prohibit social media companies from allowing users under 14 to create accounts without parental consent. For minors aged 14-17, platforms would be required to implement stricter privacy controls and time limits. Additionally, schools would be mandated to enforce policies limiting cell phone use during instructional hours.
Analysts note that the legislation aligns with similar efforts in other states, such as Florida and California, where lawmakers have introduced age-verification requirements for social media. ‘This is part of a broader national conversation about protecting kids online,’ said a policy expert familiar with the bill.
Critics argue that the measures could face legal challenges over free speech and parental rights. However, supporters emphasize the need for safeguards against cyberbullying, addiction, and inappropriate content. The vote is expected to take place later this week, with potential implications for tech companies and educators nationwide.