To: Governor of California, State legislature

I am writing to urge your attention to a matter of critical importance: the well-being of our youth in the digital age. As a concerned citizen of California, I respectfully request your support for legislation to ban children under the age of 17 from accessing social media platforms within the state.

Social media platforms have become pervasive in the lives of young people, shaping their perceptions, behaviors, and even mental health. However, mounting evidence suggests that unrestricted access to social media can have detrimental effects on the psychological, emotional, and social development of minors.

Here are several compelling reasons why such legislation is necessary:

1. Mental Health Concerns: Numerous studies have linked excessive social media use among adolescents to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. The constant pressure to present a curated version of oneself online can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, especially among impressionable young minds.

2. Cyberbullying Epidemic: Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for cyberbullying, with devastating consequences for victims. Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to online harassment, which can have long-lasting psychological effects and, in extreme cases, lead to self-harm or suicide.

3. Privacy and Online Predation: Young users may not fully understand the implications of sharing personal information online, making them easy targets for predators and identity thieves. Banning minors from social media would help safeguard their privacy and protect them from potential exploitation.

4. Impact on Academic Performance: Excessive use of social media has been shown to interfere with academic performance and concentration levels in school. By limiting access to these platforms, we can promote a healthier balance between online engagement and educational pursuits.

5. Developmental Concerns: Adolescence is a crucial period of growth and self-discovery, yet excessive screen time can hinder healthy development. By encouraging offline activities and face-to-face interactions, we can foster social skills, creativity, and emotional resilience in our youth.

In light of these compelling reasons, I urge you to consider supporting legislation that restricts children under the age of 17 from accessing social media platforms in California. By taking proactive measures to protect our youth from the negative impacts of social media, we can promote a safer, healthier, and more vibrant future for generations to come.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I stand ready to support and advocate for any legislative efforts aimed at safeguarding the well-being of our children in the digital age.

Sincerely,

Soheila Riazi