California tightens rules on children’s internet and AI use

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed laws aimed at improving children’s safety when using the internet and artificial intelligence.

Operative Information Center-OMM reports that a statement from the California governor’s office said legislation on internet use, adopted with bipartisan support in the state legislature, had been approved.

Under the laws, additional measures will be introduced to strengthen children’s safety when they use the internet and artificial intelligence.

Social media platforms will be prohibited from offering additional features to users under 16.

The statement said the move made California the first US state to adopt regulations imposing such broad restrictions on internet use.

Following the signing, Gavin Newsom said children’s safety must remain at the center of all discussions related to technology.

“As innovation accelerates, our safeguards must evolve alongside it. The law signed today makes clear that California will not stand by when unchecked technology puts our children at risk. Innovation brings responsibility, and protecting our children is paramount,” the governor said.

California has been at the forefront of efforts in the United States to regulate online platforms and address potential risks posed by artificial intelligence. Such measures generally focus on age verification, limits on platform features and stronger protections for minors’ personal data and mental well-being.