Regulation of Youth Smart Phone Usage

In response to concerns about youth mental health, the U.S. is taking steps to regulate smartphone usage and social media access to mitigate potential negative effects on children and teens. The U.S. Surgeon General has suggested that social media platforms should carry warning labels similar to those on cigarettes. In July 2024, the Senate passed the first major internet safety bill for children in two decades, aiming to protect minors online.

States are also taking action: Florida has barred children under 14 from using platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, and 13 states are suing TikTok for allegedly targeting minors with addictive designs, contributing to worsening youth mental health. In schools, there's a growing trend to ban cellphone usage during school hours; the major cities of Los Angeles and New York City have adopted such policies to reduce distractions and promote healthier social interactions. In November 2024, Australia became the first country in the world to implement a complete ban on social media access for individuals under 16. The ban is set to take effect in 2025, and tech companies that fail to comply will face substantial fines.

These measures reflect a broader effort to balance the benefits of technology with the need to be more conscious about younger generations' well-being. Planners will also have to find the right balance between digital tools and real-world interactions for youth and community-wide engagement.