A controversial California bill, Assembly Bill 1709, aims to curb addictive social media features for users under 16. Initially proposed as a ban, the bill has been amended to require companies like Meta and Reddit to offer less addictive feed alternatives for minors.

If companies fail to comply, children under 16 will be unable to create accounts on their platforms. Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal, the bill's author, stated the aim is not to ban access but to prevent "predatory behavior" by eliminating "psychologically exploitative features intended to maximize engagement." The bill defines "addictive features" to include "infinite scroll, auto play, recommended algorithms, and push notifications." Companies have until 2028 to adjust their platforms.

Concerns about isolating teenagers, data privacy, and free speech led to the bill's amendment. State Sen. Scott Wiener expressed support for addressing addictive feeds but was initially hesitant about a complete ban. The amended bill places the onus on companies to modify their platforms, with an oversight group to advise the Attorney General's Office. The bill is now headed to the Senate Appropriations Committee.