On September 10, 2026, California introduced a series of new laws aimed at strengthening protections for children using social media and AI chatbots.

    The new measures restrict social media platforms from providing users under 16 with features that may encourage prolonged use, including infinite scrolling, autoplay, and certain algorithmic feeds. The legislation also strengthens safeguards for AI companion chatbots, including parental controls, risk assessments, and independent child-safety audits.

Comment from GAME-F

Simply telling children to “use social media less” may not be enough.

Many digital services include features designed to keep users engaged, such as infinite scrolling and autoplay.

An important aspect of California's new approach is that it focuses not only on children's self-control, but also on the design of digital services themselves.

GAME-F emphasizes the importance of looking beyond screen time and considering functional impacts on sleep, education, family life, and everyday activities.

Protecting children in the digital age therefore requires not only family rules and education, but also digital environments designed with children's safety in mind.

References

State of California. Governor Newsom signs the strongest child safety chatbot and social media laws in the nation. September 10, 2026. https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/10/governor-newsom-signs-the-strongest-child-safety-chatbot-and-social-media-laws-in-the-nation/

California Governor's Office. What they are saying: National leaders and lawmakers celebrate Governor Newsom's signature on landmark child safety chatbot and social media laws. September 10, 2026.

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/10/what-they-are-saying-national-leaders-and-lawmakers-celebrate-governor-newsoms-signature-on-landmark-child-safety-chatbot-and-social-media-laws/