By Bob Katzen

A late-filed bill would prohibit minors under the age of 16 from opening a social media account unless the account provides primarily videoconferencing,
e-mailing mailing or educational services. The measure would require the social media platform company to take reasonable steps to prevent children under 16 from having accounts and includes a requirement that applicants provide a birth certificate or valid government-issued identification, proving that they are over 16.

Supporters say that this age restriction is long overdue and cite the U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory that highlighted a strong correlation between prolonged social media use and adverse mental health effects in minors, including increased rates of anxiety, depression and social isolation. They noted that being on these platforms risks the possibility of minors being cyberbullied, harassed and exposed to sexual predators.

Rep. Michael Kushmerek (D-Fitchburg), the sponsor of the bill, did not respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him why he sponsored the measure.