LANSING — The Kids Over Clicks bills moving through the Michigan Legislature would strengthen online protections for children and shift more responsibility to technology companies.
The Public News Service is reporting the legislation was introduced by Senate Democrats in December and is designed to establish safety-by-design standards for digital platforms used by minors.
Supporters say the bills would require stronger privacy protections, limit harmful algorithm amplification, and require companies to consider child safety in product design from the start.
From a health perspective, pediatricians warn excessive screen use can affect sleep, mental health and child development. They say families are often overwhelmed by rapidly changing apps and platforms.
Backers argue the legislation would default platforms to the highest privacy and safety settings, reducing the burden on parents.
The Kids Over Clicks package has not yet had a hearing but is expected to come up for discussion soon.