New Hampshire Attorney General Seeks Family Comments On Impact Of Social Media On Kids

CONCORD, NH — After two years of investigating social media’s impact on young people, state investigators are asking for public input.

On Tuesday, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office requested feedback from Granite Staters about the impacts social media platforms have had on kids in the state. An email address has been created — SMPImpact@doj.nh.gov, where parents, guardians, and residents who have “witnessed or experienced negative impacts” on the mental health of young people, can submit comment. Witnesses can offer a summary of what has been seen, which platform was used, as well as the name, contact information, and age of the person impacted.

“We want to hear from people who have loved ones, particularly young people, who have been negatively affected by social media,” Attorney General John Formella said. “Extensive social media use has been tied to profound risks of harm in youth. Indeed, there has been an increased focus on the correlation between the development of serious mental health disorders by minors and time spent on social media.”

State officials have investigated the issue for two years while also eyeing the company’s business practices. Educators, health care, other officials, and other attorney generals nationwide are involved in the effort. Formella said investigators were trying to find the best ways to protect New Hampshire kids from harm.

Gov. Chris Sununu said state officials would take all necessary options to protect children.

“New Hampshire’s children are the future of our state and our nation,” he said, “and we are making every effort to ensure necessary steps are taken to prevent harm by these platforms.”

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