In response to concerns about the negative impact of social media on minors, Wyoming lawmakers are reintroducing a bill aimed at requiring parental consent for minors to create social media accounts. Sponsored by Rep. Steve Harshman, House Bill 19 would mandate a parental verification process for social media platforms and give parents the authority to revoke their child’s account.
Harshman sees the bill as a crucial step in protecting children from the dangers of social media, a sentiment fueled by the tragic suicide of a constituent’s son due to cyberbullying.
This proposal comes as part of a broader conversation about the consequences of excessive screen time, with the U.S. surgeon general highlighting the mental health risks for children and adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media.
Recent research reveals that almost 95% of teenagers use social media, with some spending an average of 3.5 hours daily on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Experts warn that this behavior can lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as disrupt sleep patterns and social interactions.
The conversation has expanded beyond Wyoming. In other states, such as Utah and Tennessee, similar legislation has been introduced, requiring age verification and parental consent for minors to access social media.
Additionally, California’s law focuses on limiting screen time by giving parents tools to control their children’s notifications and usage. With growing concerns over social media’s impact on young people, these legislative efforts are part of a nationwide movement to better regulate online activity and protect minors from its harmful effects.