Bill > HR5173

This bill, called the "No Social Media at School Act," requires social media companies to use geofencing (a virtual boundary technology) to block access to their platforms on K-12 education campuses during regular school hours. The legislation allows exceptions for push notifications related to emergency alerts like weather warnings or amber alerts. The bill protects user privacy by explicitly stating that social media companies are not required to collect additional personal data or implement age verification systems. Enforcement of this act would be handled by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general, who can take civil actions against companies that violate the restrictions. The bill provides detailed definitions of key terms, including what constitutes a "social media platform," carefully excluding various digital services like email, educational platforms, videoconferencing, and e-commerce sites from the definition. Violations would be treated as unfair or deceptive practices under the Federal Trade Commission Act, potentially resulting in penalties and legal actions. The primary goal appears to be limiting students' access to social media during school hours to reduce potential distractions and improve educational focus.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5173/all-info