Nebraska governor proposes social media restrictions for minors

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen (R ) urged state lawmakers to support a new bill that would require parental consent for children looking to create social media accounts during a Monday news conference.

“These bills will address the addictive nature of social media, prohibit the generation of AI child pornography, restrict the use of phones and electronic devices in schools and require parental consent for minors to set up social media accounts,” Pillen said, referencing the proposed Parental Rights in Social Media Act.

The legislation would require parental consent for minors under the age of 18 to open a social media account. It also addresses AI-generated and other child pornography created by minors by making such crime a Class III felony. Adults who violate the act will be guilty of a class 1D felony.

“Children today are more anxious, more depressed and inflicting self-harm and at the highest rates ever. Our kids are our most precious resource, and it’s time to take action to protect them in the social media world,” said State Sen. Tanya Storer (R ) who plans to introduce the bill.

“This legislation empowers parents to supervise their children on social media in a meaningful way."

The state’s attorney general also spoke out in support of the measure.

“One of the top priorities for our office is protecting children. And right now, some of the biggest threats to children originate online, through cell phones, social media, and child sexual abuse material,” Attorney General Mike Hilgers said in a statement.

“These bills are necessary to enhance current laws. I am proud to work with Governor Pillen and senators to enact laws that hold those perpetrating harm against our children accountable.”

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