This bill mandates the establishment of a public awareness campaign by the Department of Education to inform parents and guardians about the dangers of social media use among minors. The campaign is designed to increase awareness of the potential harms associated with social media, particularly in light of findings from the United States Surgeon General's May 2023 advisory, which highlights the significant risks that social media poses to youth mental health. The advisory notes that a large percentage of minors are active on social media, and excessive use can lead to negative mental health outcomes, body dissatisfaction, and exposure to harmful content. The campaign aims to equip parents and guardians with current research and recommendations to promote safe social media practices.

To implement this initiative, the bill appropriates $500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Education. The campaign will be developed in consultation with the Commissioner of Health and will utilize various media outlets, including newspapers, radio, and social media, within 180 days of enactment. Additionally, the Commissioner of Education is required to report to the Governor and the Legislature on the campaign's activities and accomplishments within 24 months of the act's effective date.