Senate Advances Kids Off Social Media Act Targeting Youth Online Safety

The bipartisan bill seeks to restrict social media access for children under 13 and limit recommendation algorithms for teens under 17.

The Kids Off Social Media Act (KOSMA) has been approved by the Senate Commerce Committee, moving it closer to potential enactment.
The legislation would ban children under 13 from creating social media accounts and restrict recommendation algorithms for users under 17.
Schools receiving federal funding would be required to block social media on their networks and devices, regardless of students' ages.
Supporters, including pediatricians and some lawmakers, argue the bill addresses a youth mental health crisis linked to social media use.
Opponents, including civil liberties groups and tech industry representatives, warn the bill threatens free speech, privacy, and could lead to invasive surveillance measures.