KABUL (Pajhwok): California authorities have approved new laws restricting children under 16 from accessing certain “addictive” social media features and banning the production and sale of toys equipped with AI chatbots for four years.
Reuters reported that California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the measures on Thursday as part of a package of 13 bills aimed at protecting children and teenagers from technology-related risks.
The laws also strengthen privacy protections for minors.
Under one measure, children under 16 would be barred from certain social media features designed to keep users online longer and potentially encourage compulsive or addictive use. Infinite scrolling and algorithmic autoplay are among the features targeted.
Another law prohibits the production and sale of toys with built-in AI companion chatbots for four years. A related measure requires chatbot companies to provide parental controls, safety measures and risk assessments.
Newsom said the laws are intended to ensure technology supports children’s health and well-being rather than exploits their vulnerabilities.
The measures have received broad bipartisan support, although critics have called them unnecessary restrictions on young people’s internet access. The Electronic Frontier Foundation has also raised concerns about their potential impact on privacy and free speech.
California joins several other US states, including Utah, Arkansas, Louisiana, Ohio, Texas, Florida and New York, in adopting laws to regulate children’s access to social media.
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