Senate committee studies social media regulations to protect children

Sen. Jech Holds Interim Study Evaluating Social Media Regulations to Protect Children

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 18th) – Sen. Darcy Jech, R-Kingfisher, held an interim study in the Senate Judiciary Committee Thursday to evaluate how to protect children from the harmful effects of social media use and analyze potential regulatory solutions.

“The information brought forward during this study revealed the alarming prevalence of mental health issues among youth who are active on social media,” Jech said. “We are facing an epidemic that demands urgent action. It’s vital that we explore protective measures and regulations while also educating both parents and young people about the risks and mental health challenges linked to online activity.”

Dr. Stoni Fortney, a licensed psychologist based in Moore, shared her insights on the mental health risks of social media use among vulnerable youth. She noted that rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders are significantly rising among adolescents each year. Dr. Fortney highlighted that the overwhelming amount of information youth must navigate leads to high levels of digital stress, while factors like cyberbullying, explicit content, peer influence, and insufficient regulation further exacerbate these risks.

Special Agent Blaine Phillips from the OSBI Internet Crimes Against Children Unit presented on the risks of predation, extortion, and human trafficking linked to social media. The OSBI received over 9,000 cyber tips last year regarding content containing child sexual abuse material. Phillips emphasized the importance of community education and parental involvement to mitigate dangers for youth online.

Jech’s inspiration for the study came from the Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health published in 2023, which calls for action from policymakers, technology companies, researchers, families, and young people alike.

“Legislation on this matter will require collaboration from all stakeholders to ensure we are meeting the needs of our youth and families, while also incorporating the advice and insight of mental health professionals and social media enterprises,” Jech said.

Jech added that representatives from various social media companies were invited to the study to share more about their platforms, but they were unable to attend.

Other presenters included representatives from the Office of the Attorney General, Office of Juvenile Affairs, and Pivot. The full study is available to view here.