As a parent, I appreciated Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo’s recent column (“Growing Up Digitally Addicted: Why Our Kids Need Protection, “April 7) highlighting the very real harms of social media addiction among our children.
Families across California are seeing these impacts firsthand, and thoughtful policy solutions are urgently needed. However, Assembly Bill 1709, as drafted, falls short of delivering the protections parents expect. First, the bill does not adequately address logged-out access. Children can easily view harmful or addictive content without creating an account. A simple search allows them to bypass age restrictions, rendering account-based safeguards ineffective.
Second, the bill’s definition of “social media” must be broadened. If major platforms commonly used by kids are excluded due to narrow statutory language, the law risks becoming outdated the moment it is enacted. Any meaningful reform must reflect how young people actually engage online.
Third, the approach to age verification raises serious privacy concerns. Requiring children to verify their identity across multiple platforms could expose sensitive personal data to numerous companies. A centralized, secure verification system would better protect families while still achieving the bill’s intent.
As a mother of two school-aged boys, I respectfully urge Assemblywoman Schiavo to work with parents and stakeholders to amend AB 1709 in committee. With targeted improvements, this bill can more effectively safeguard children while respecting family privacy.
Margaret Elias
Saugus
