Proposed bill to limit social media for Oklahoma teens

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – A proposed bill at the Capitol could make it harder for Oklahoma teenagers to spend hours scrolling through social media.

House Bill 1275, filed by Representative Chad Caldwell (R-Enid) would ban social media for teens and children under the age of 16-years-old. It would also require teens ages 16 and 17-years-old to have parental consent to access social media.

"I think the data is abundantly clear," said Caldwell. "You're looking at 180% increase in hospitalizations for self-harm, suicide attempts. You have to back up to about 160% or so increases in mental health disorders, anxiety, depression."

The bill would also require social media companies to confirm the child’s age and the consent given by the parents.

Lawmakers on the Government Modernization and Technology Committee questioned how the legislation would work.

"Some might argue this takes the decision-making power away from the parents," said Rep. Emily Guise (R-Oklahoma City).

Caldwell responded by saying restrictions on social media would be very much the same as they would be for alcohol, tobacco, pornography, marijuana, firearms, and drugs.

Another lawmaker asked if the bill could lead to loopholes in accessing the sites.

"Just because someone may try to find a way around the law is not a reason for us to have the law," said Caldwell.

He said there were still more kinks to work out with the legislation but that it did not take away from its importance.

"If we can, we can help 70% of kids that would be an incredible journey compared to where we are today," said Caldwell.

Legislators on the Senate side have filed a similar bill that would require age verification for Oklahoma teens trying to access social media sites.