LA Times: Letter to the Editor

Cassandra Mischak - Journalism Student
192 Greenbriar Lane
Newtown, PA 18940

(Article Link: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-04-22/editorial-california-lawmakers-try-again-to-make-social-media-companies-add-safeguards-for-kids)

Re: ‘Social media companies refuse to safeguard kids. It’s up to lawmakers now,’ as a 22-year-old female in today's screen-consuming generation, I couldn't agree more with your column on social media regulations for kids.


Growing up in the hectic world of evolving technology, my parents established strict regulations regarding the amount of time spent and the accounts allowed on my tablet. Thankfully, solely because of their implemented rules, I didn’t experience the harmful addiction that young users face today.


Social media companies most certainly have a responsibility to administer protection for young users, but their efforts in doing so are inadequate.


By not having intact regulations, social media platforms are exposing young children to an array of digital dangers. Online, children can encounter adult content, cyberbullying and threatening predators. This can create an emotional and psychological effect that could leave an irreversible impact on kids. 


I am beyond thrilled to learn about the new laws in Florida, Iowa and Colorado that were passed over the last few months. Having a stern age restriction, parental permission and hourly pop-up warnings are an effective start to establishing a healthy change. 


However, these types of laws need to, not only go into effect in select states, but also across the entire United States immediately. Since the social media companies aren’t performing these duties on their own, lawmakers in every state must act fast to prioritize the mental health and safety of the younger generation. 


The time for change is now.

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