Surgeon General's Shocking Revelation About Social Media's Impact on Kids!

The restriction on social media use in schools does not apply to email, news, gaming, online shopping, photo editing, and academic websites. 

It also mandates the implementation of a model program focusing on the effects of social media on students in grades 6-12 and requires the updating of existing anti-bullying programs.

This decision follows U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's caution in May regarding the lack of safety evidence for young people using social media. 

Murthy urged immediate action from tech companies, parents, and caregivers to protect children. 

He also called for increased transparency and data sharing from tech companies and for policymakers to regulate social media safety similarly to how they regulate car seats and baby formula.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced in 2022 that it was enhancing age verification measures. 

The company stated that it provides "age-appropriate experiences" for teenagers aged 13-17 on Instagram, including measures to prevent unwanted contact from unknown adults.

Numerous U.S. states, including California and New York, have filed lawsuits against Meta Platforms Inc., alleging that the company knowingly and intentionally designs features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children to its platforms, thereby contributing to a youth mental health crisis.

Recently, Florida passed a law prohibiting the creation of social media accounts for children under 14, regardless of parental consent, and requiring parental approval for 14- and 15-year-olds.