Rhode Island Lawmakers Consider Youth Social Media Ban

PROVIDENCE, RI — Proposed legislation would make social media off-limits for Rhode Island's youth.

The Social Media Regulation Act, sponsored by state Rep. Tina L. Spears, D-Charlestown, New Shoreham, South Kingstown and Westerly, "would require social media companies to verify their Rhode Island users’ ages, and prohibit use by those under 18," according to a media release.

"As technology evolves, so does our responsibility to protect children,” Spears said in the release.

If passed, the law goes into effect New Year's Day.

Meanwhile, Massachusetts lawmakers are entertaining a youth social media bill of their own.

The Massachusetts legislation would ban all social media apps for those up to 13 years old and require verified permission for apps for 14- and 15-year-olds.

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