Multiple States Urge Congress to Mandate Surgeon General Warning on Social Media Platforms

A coalition of 42 attorneys general, led by Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, has formally requested Congress to introduce legislation mandating that a U.S. surgeon general warning be placed on algorithm-driven social media platforms. The request comes as concerns rise about the impact of these platforms on the mental health of young people.

The attorneys general highlighted recent research indicating that prolonged use of social media can have detrimental effects on the mental well-being of children and teenagers. Studies have linked the use of these platforms to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and, in some cases, suicidal ideation. The coalition’s letter underscores the role that platform algorithms play in keeping users, particularly young ones, engaged through techniques such as infinite scrolling and continuous notifications.

Attorney General Brown stated, “Every day, our youth are turning to social media platforms that, unknowingly to them, are designed to exploit their vulnerabilities and push them deeper into cycles of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. Congress must safeguard the well-being of our youth and ensure they are protected from the harm lurking behind swipes and clicks.”

This push for federal action follows multiple state-level efforts to hold social media companies accountable. In October 2023, Brown and 41 other attorneys general filed a lawsuit against Meta, the parent company of Instagram, alleging that the company had intentionally designed addictive features to engage children and teens, despite being aware of the potential harm.

The coalition of attorneys general stressed that the responsibility for addressing these issues should not rest solely on states. They argue that federal legislation is necessary, as social media companies have not shown a willingness to self-regulate or implement meaningful changes to protect young users.

The letter to Congress was signed by attorneys general from across the political spectrum, including representatives from Alabama, California, Florida, New York, Texas, and Washington, among others. The signatories represent a wide range of states and territories, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, demonstrating the broad bipartisan nature of the coalition.

As public scrutiny of social media platforms intensifies, the attorneys general are hoping to see swift action from Congress in response to their concerns. The letter marks the latest in a series of efforts aimed at creating a safer digital environment for young people, with the proposed surgeon general warning acting as a potential first step in holding companies accountable for their platforms’ effects on mental health.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors