A recent report by Patrick T. Brown and Brad Wilcox highlights the growing concern among parents about keeping their kids safe online and preventing social media content from negatively impacting their well-being. The report found that 86% of parents believe it is too easy for kids to access explicit content online, and monitoring screen time and social media are top concerns for parents.
Two bills recently introduced in Tennessee aim to address these concerns. The Protecting Children from Social Media Act would require social media companies to obtain parental permission before minors open an account, while the Protect Tennessee Minors Act would require age verification to access online pornography. Both bills have garnered support from a majority of Tennesseans, cutting across political party lines.
Parents are increasingly struggling to ensure their children are engaging with social media and the internet in healthy ways. The bills aim to provide parents with tools to supervise their child’s online activities, such as clearer access to privacy settings and administrator-level access to monitor their child’s online interactions. This approach has been well-received by parents who want to protect their children from harmful content.
Ultimately, parents bear the responsibility for their children’s well-being, but with the influence of social media on children’s lives, having the right tools to navigate online safety is crucial. Giving parents more power to protect kids online is seen as a winning political issue that transcends partisan lines, showing the need for government intervention in safeguarding children in the digital age.
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