California social media ban draws criticism over privacy and free expression

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1709 into law on 10 September, introducing restrictions that effectively prevent people under 16 from using social media platforms. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and other civil society groups criticised the measure, arguing that it could limit young people’s access to information and online communities.

EFF said that online platforms have become an important space for young people to learn, communicate and build communities. It argued that restricting access could have a greater impact on young people who rely on online communities for support that may not be available to them offline.

The organisation also raised concerns about the law’s age-verification requirements. Platforms would need to establish users’ ages, which EFF said could require the collection of additional personal information. According to the organisation, this could create new privacy risks by encouraging platforms to hold more data about their users.

EFF also questioned the impact of the restrictions on freedom of expression. It said young people use social media to share creative work, practise religion, participate in political activities and develop their own views. The organisation cited research that it said shows social media bans have been ineffective.

EFF and its allies called instead for stronger privacy protections and measures addressing surveillance-based business models. Fight for the Future and COLAGE also criticised AB 1709, pointing to concerns about privacy, access to information and the ability of young people to build communities online.

The law is also expected to face legal challenges. EFF said the measure raises questions about free expression and could lead California to spend public resources defending the legislation in court.