This bill mandates the establishment of a public awareness campaign by the Department of Education regarding the dangers of social media use among minors. The campaign aims to inform parents and guardians about the potential risks associated with social media, particularly in light of findings from the United States Surgeon General's May 2023 advisory, which highlights the prevalence of social media use among adolescents and its potential negative impacts on mental health, including increased risks of depression, anxiety, and exposure to harmful content. The campaign will utilize various media outlets, including newspapers, radio, and social media, to disseminate information and promote safe social media practices.
To support the implementation of this campaign, the bill appropriates $500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Education. Additionally, the Commissioner of Education, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Health, is required to report on the campaign's activities and accomplishments to the Governor and the Legislature within 24 months of the act's effective date. The campaign is expected to be launched within 180 days following the enactment of the bill, building on the work of the Commission on the Effects of Social Media Usage on Adolescents established earlier in 2023.