BALTIMORE, MD—As growing evidence suggests that social media platforms can exacerbate mental health issues among young people, a coalition of 43 attorneys general, including Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, is calling on Congress to pass a law to protect them.

In a letter to Congress (PDF), the attorneys general cite research linking young people’s use of social media platforms to psychological harm, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. They also argue that the platforms use enticing algorithmic recommendations, infinite scrolling, and a constant stream of notifications, which are designed to keep kids relentlessly engaged, even if they need to take a break and engage in other activities or sleep.

“Every day, our youth are turning to social media platforms that, unknowingly to them, are designed to exploit their vulnerabilities and push them deeper into cycles of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt,” said Connecticut AG Anthony G. Brown. “Congress must safeguard the well-being of our youth and ensure they are protected from the harm lurking behind swipes and clicks.”

The attorneys general have taken several steps to hold social media platforms accountable for the harm they have caused young people, including filing a lawsuit against Meta in October 2023, alleging that the company knowingly designed and deployed harmful features on Instagram and its other social media platforms with the intent of addicting children and teens. However, they recognize that more needs to be done, and they are urging Congress to pass a law to protect young people from the harms that social media can cause.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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