A new proposal in California, known as the Social Media Warning Law or AB 56, aims to address the addictive nature of social media by requiring warning labels similar to those on cigarettes or alcohol. The bill, currently moving through the California State Capitol, would mandate a warning message to appear at least once daily when users access a social media site, and every hour after three hours of cumulative use.
The warning would read: “The Surgeon General has warned that while social media may have benefits for some young users, social media is associated with significant mental health harms and has not been proven safe for young users.” The push for this legislation is led by parents like Victoria Hinks, who lost her 16-year-old daughter to suicide. Hinks argues that the warning labels could raise awareness about the potential dangers of social media.
Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, the author of the bill, believes that educating users about their social media habits is crucial for health and well-being. The bill specifies that for users under 18, the warning cannot be bypassed and must be displayed for at least 90 seconds.
However, the proposal faces opposition from the tech industry, which argues that the warnings could become cumbersome and ineffective. Matt Schruers, president of the Computer & Communications Industry Association, suggests focusing on media literacy training instead.
The bill recently passed through the Senate Appropriations Committee with a 5-2 vote, and if enacted, it would take effect on January 1, 2027. Despite the opposition, supporters like Hinks believe that even if the warning saves one life, it would be worth the inconvenience.
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