California social media bills target addictive features for minors

Two California legislative proposals, AB 1709 and AB 2, have cleared the State Senate Appropriations Committee and are moving toward a full Senate vote. If passed, the bills could reach Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk before the legislative session ends on August 31.

AB 1709 aims to prohibit social media platforms from providing addictive design features to users under the age of 16. Targeted features include auto-scroll, infinite scroll, and certain notifications. Under this bill, platforms could still allow minors to maintain accounts, provided they utilize alternative designs such as chronological timelines.

AB 2 would establish a private right of action, enabling parents and children to sue social media companies for damages and civil penalties if a minor is harmed. Assemblyman Josh Lowenthal, the author of both measures, stated that the legislation reflects a broad public demand for regulation to protect children from digital addiction.