FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 11, 2024) – Attorney General Russell Coleman announced that Kentucky led a group of 42 attorneys general in calling for federal legislation to require a surgeon general’s warning on social media platforms. In a letter to Congressional leaders, the attorneys general raise alarm over the growing scrutiny on social media companies for their role in the generational harm to young people’s mental health.
“Social media platforms are designed to addict users—especially our kids —to spend countless hours digging for their algorithmic fix,” said Attorney General Coleman. “Even as our Office continues to hold these companies accountable for the harm they inflict on our youth, it’s time for our federal partners to step in and protect Kentucky’s sons and daughters.”
In their letter, the attorneys general from both parties referenced wide-ranging research showing the link between young people’s use of these platform and psychological harm, including depression, anxiety and even suicidal thoughts in kids and teens.
“As State Attorneys General, we sometimes disagree about important issues, but all of us share and abiding concern for the safety of the kids in our jurisdiction—and algorithm-driven social media platforms threaten that safety,” the bipartisan coalition wrote.
Attorney General Coleman led the 42-state letter, along with attorneys general from California, Colorado, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York and Tennessee.
