CALIFORNIA MOVES TO STRENGTHEN PROTECTION OF CHILDREN ON SOCIAL MEDIA

California has signed a new law aimed at reducing the risks children face while using social media platforms, as authorities intensify efforts to address concerns about the impact of online services on young people.

The legislation seeks to place greater responsibility on social media companies to protect children from potentially harmful online experiences. It comes amid growing concerns over issues such as addictive platform features, exposure to inappropriate content, online harassment and other risks associated with prolonged social media use.

Supporters of the law say stronger safeguards are necessary because children may be more vulnerable to the negative effects of social media than adults. They argue that technology companies should take greater steps to design platforms with children's safety in mind rather than leaving parents and young users to deal with the risks alone.

The move is part of a wider debate in the United States over how social media companies should protect minors while also respecting users' privacy and freedom online. California has previously introduced several measures targeting children's digital safety, making the state one of the leading jurisdictions in efforts to regulate the relationship between young people and technology companies.

The new law is expected to increase pressure on social media platforms to review how their services interact with younger users. As the legislation takes effect, its implementation and impact could also influence similar efforts by other states seeking stronger protections for children in the digital environment.