How California Is Changing Social Media For Kids with Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (CA-69)

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal discusses California legislation aimed at addressing the impact of social media on children and teens, including AB 1709 and AB 2. The conversation explores how addictive social media features can affect young people, the need for greater oversight and accountability from social media platforms, and efforts to create safer online environments for youth. Josh also shares insights into the role of parents, communities, and policymakers in protecting children online and addressing the growing concerns surrounding social media use, youth well-being, and digital safety.What We're Talking About...California legislation AB 1709 and AB 2 addressing social media and youth safetyAddictive social media features and their impact on children and teensAge verification and protections for teen social media accountsSocial media use and its impact on youth mental health and well-beingGovernment oversight and regulation of social media and technology companiesCorporate accountability and penalties for negligence or harm to young usersThe role of parents, families, and communities in protecting children onlineTech industry incentives, corporate interests, and Wall Street’s influence on social media platforms Chapters00:00 Introduction to the episode and Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal00:52 Overview of California's social media bills AB 1709 and AB 203:21 Details of AB 1709 and its focus on age restrictions and oversight06:39 Penalties for harm and negligence under AB 207:46 Challenges of regulating teen accounts and verifying age10:35 Impact of social media on youth mental health and development12:32 The importance of ongoing measurement and regulation15:40 Parental concerns and managing children's social media use20:42 Tech industry incentives, Wall Street pressure, and ethical considerations24:32 The role of social media companies as wellness companies27:30 How parents and communities can get involved34:26 Final thoughts and call to action for listenersLinks MentionedInfo on California social media legislation: https://www.socialmediadelay.com