Michigan Senate Passes ‘Kids Over Clicks’ Bills Targeting Social Media Addiction
Michigan Senate approves bipartisan legislation targeting social media companies for practices lawmakers say exploit children and fuel online addiction.
LANSING, MICHIGAN — The Michigan Senate approved legislation Wednesday aimed at holding social media companies accountable for practices that lawmakers say exploit children and fuel online addiction.
Senate Bills 757-760, collectively known as the “Kids Over Clicks” package, passed the upper chamber with bipartisan support despite being a Democratic-led initiative. The legislation targets what sponsors describe as unethical practices by technology companies that leave children vulnerable to online exploitation, bullying, and social media addiction.
The bills were sponsored by Sens. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit), and Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia).
Lawmakers Target Big Tech Algorithms
“Time and time again, Big Tech platforms have shown that they will always prioritize their bottom line over the safety of our children,” Camilleri said following passage of the package. “That is unacceptable and exactly why my Senate colleagues and I passed the Kids Over Clicks package.”
“With this legislation, we’re standing up to massive tech companies and forcing them to put an end to the exploitative, dangerous, addictive feeds they use to keep our kids endlessly scrolling while they make a profit,” he added.
Hertel said technology companies have used algorithms and other techniques to affect the emotional and mental well-being of children and teenagers to keep them engaged with applications. He argued parents lack adequate tools to protect their children from these practices.
Empowering Parents in Digital Age
“And right now, parents are being asked to fight that battle without the tools they need,” Hertel said. “All the while, massive tech companies continue to grow their profit at our children’s expense.”
“With our Kids Over Clicks package, we have the opportunity to change that and put parents back in the driver’s seat where they have the power to protect their kids online just as they do in the real world,” he continued.
The legislation addresses concerns about social media platforms designed to maximize user engagement through features that lawmakers say can become addictive, particularly for young users. The bills aim to give parents more control over their children’s online experiences while requiring greater accountability from technology companies.
The package now heads to the Michigan House of Representatives for consideration. If approved by the lower chamber and signed by the governor, Michigan would join other states implementing regulations on social media companies’ interactions with minors.
