The bipartisan “16 & Up Social Media Act,” introduced just a few days ago by Congressman Jake Auchincloss of Massachusetts and Congresswoman Erin Houchin of Indiana, would make kids ineligible to use social media until they turn 16.

 

Auchincloss told 12 News he believes features like autoplay, push notifications and infinite scrolling can get kids hooked on social media, adding that, as a parent, he’s passionate about child development.

 

“We’re all anxious about the negative impact of social media on kids’ emotional development, on their ability to enjoy time in real life with friends and family, and on their attention spans,” the congressman said.

 

Under this bill, social media platforms would have to block underage users from creating accounts, as well as identify and delete existing accounts operated by underage users.

 

12 News spoke with locals who come down on both sides of the issue.

 

“There’s a lot of influences out there,” said Susan Dunnington of Providence. “It’s hard when you’re eight, nine, ten, trying to figure out what’s a good influence and what’s not.”

 

“People should have a right to choose,” Christopher Woodley said, adding, “I think stuff like that should be more monitored by their parents, not controlled by the system.”

 

The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on Thursday, Sept. 10, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. That committee won’t meet next until after the midterm elections.

 

See more at wpri.com.