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A new bill proposed in the Indiana State Senate could potentially change how young people in the state engage with social media. Senate Bill 11, introduced by State Senator Mike Bohacek, aims to set age restrictions on social media use by minors, with a focus on protecting the mental health of youth in the digital age.
According to the WRTV news site, the proposed legislation is in response to growing concerns about the impact of social media on children and teenagers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 77% of high school students report using social media several times a day, which raises questions about the potential mental health effects on this highly connected generation.
Under the terms of Senate Bill 11, social media platforms would be required to restrict access for minors under the age of 16 unless they first obtain verifiable parental consent. The bill seeks to place more control in the hands of parents and guardians, giving them the authority to decide whether their children should be allowed access to social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
"If you feel your child is mature enough and you feel like you supervise them enough, then you simply give them access to do that," said Bohacek during a recent Senate Judiciary Committee session, reassuring lawmakers and parents that the decision to grant access would remain a personal choice.
However, the bill's critics and experts are divided on whether simply restricting access is enough. Johan Bollen, a professor of informatics and cognitive science at Indiana University, believes that social media usage should be limited regardless of age. "I think it would be wise to limit social media use to the greatest degree possible," Bollen stated, acknowledging the growing influence social media has on every aspect of modern life.
Social media’s role in youth mental health has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years. Studies have linked heavy social media use to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation among young people. Critics argue that platforms are designed to keep users hooked, often exacerbating these mental health issues.
While the idea of regulating social media use has gained traction, finding a balance between protecting children and respecting individual freedoms remains a complex issue. Some support the bill as a necessary step to safeguard kids' well-being, while others argue that it could be an overreach by the government.
If Senate Bill 11 is passed, the new rules will go into effect by July 2025, potentially making Indiana the first state to impose age-based restrictions on social media access in this way. This could set a precedent for other states to consider similar measures, as concerns about the mental health of young people continue to grow.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: social media's influence on youth is a topic that demands ongoing attention, and this proposed legislation is only one part of a larger conversation about how to protect young people in the digital age.
If you or your loved one are struggling with your mental health, or an addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery today. Our highly experienced and professional team will guide and support you every step of the way to recovery. Over 30,000 individuals have broken free from their addictions through Avenues, and you can too! Contact us today to join our vibrant recovery community and begin your journey to sobriety.