Des Moines, IA (Radio Iowa)– A bill eligible for debate in the Iowa House could change how some young social media users go about getting an account set up.
The current language would require parental permission for teenagers ages fourteen to seventeen before setting up profiles on things like Instagram, Facebook or Twitter which is a change from the original bill than would have simply banned anyone under the age of eighteen from using the platforms.
Representative John Wills of Spirit Lake says studies have shown social media use can be a major distraction for teenagers by disrupting sleep and promoting unrealistic views on body image.
The bill cleared the House Ways and Means Committee on Monday with support essentially on party lines with the exception of two Republicans voting against it. Some opposed to the bill are asking for more changes to ensure it does not prevent students from using social media for homework and other school activities.