Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and 41 other attorneys general are urging Congress to pass legislation requiring a U.S. surgeon general warning on algorithm-driven social media platforms, citing their role in harming young people’s mental health and the need for federal action to protect youth.
Per the Maryland Attorney General’s Office: “In a letter to Congress, Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, along with 41 other attorneys general, urged lawmakers to pass legislation requiring a U.S. surgeon general warning on all algorithm-driven social media platforms. The letter comes amidst increasing scrutiny of social media companies for their role in harming young people’s mental health. The attorneys general referenced growing research linking social media use among youth to psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in kids and teens. They also pointed out how platforms use algorithmic recommendations, infinite scrolling, and frequent notifications to keep young users constantly engaged, often at the expense of sleep and other activities.
“Every day, our youth are turning to social media platforms that, unknowingly to them, are designed to exploit their vulnerabilities and push them deeper into cycles of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt,” said Attorney General Brown. “Congress must safeguard the well-being of our youth and ensure they are protected from the harm lurking behind swipes and clicks.”
In October 2023, Attorney General Brown and the same group of attorneys general filed a lawsuit against Meta, accusing the company of intentionally designing harmful features on Instagram and other platforms to addict children and teens. Despite state efforts to address these harms, the coalition of attorneys general stressed the need for federal action, stating that social media companies have shown an unwillingness to resolve the problem independently.
By signing the letter, Attorney General Brown joins the attorneys general of 41 other states and territories, including Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington.
More information is available at www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov.”