— The California State Assembly gave overwhelming approval to Assembly Bill 56, which would require warning labels on social media platforms. The bill is backed by Common Sense Media, authored by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, and sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta.

Following the bill's passage out of the Assembly, Common Sense Media Founder and CEO James P. Steyer issued this statement:

"The Assembly's support for AB 56 is a major step toward much-needed safeguards on kids' social media use. We thank Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan and Attorney General Bonta for championing this legislation, as well as the broad coalition of advocates who work every day to build a safer digital future for all children.

"Lawmakers' support for this bill comes at a pivotal moment for kids' well-being. Teens now spend close to five hours a day on social media, and we owe it to families to provide clear, evidence-based information about the consequences of excessive use. When we learned alcohol could cause birth defects, we added warning labels for pregnant women. When nicotine was linked to cancer, we labeled every cigarette pack. Social media is addictive, too, and it's time we took the same proven approach.

"We look forward to the State Senate's and Gov. Newsom's support for AB 56 and ushering in a new era of online safety for all kids, teens, and families."

More information on AB 56 can be found here. The bill will be considered next by the State Senate Judiciary Committee.

Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users worldwide and 1.4 million educators every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.