The Young People's Alliance (YPA) today announced its strong support for two critical pieces of legislation in the North Carolina General Assembly: SB514 and SB624.
These bills, developed with input from young people across the state, represent a "pro-human" approach to technology policy that prioritizes the wellbeing of young users over platform profits.
SB514, the Digital Platform Safety Act, would require social media platforms operating in North Carolina to: - Provide clear and accessible privacy controls for users under 18 - Limit the use of addictive design features targeting minors - Give parents meaningful tools to monitor and manage their children's online experiences - Prohibit the sale of minors' personal data without explicit parental consent
SB624, the AI Transparency and Accountability Act, would: - Require disclosure when users are interacting with AI systems - Mandate safety assessments before AI products can be marketed to minors - Establish liability standards for AI-related harms to young people - Create a youth advisory board to inform state AI policy
"These bills were written by students, for students," said Ava Smithing, Advocacy Director of the Young People's Alliance. "We know firsthand how technology can be designed in ways that exploit rather than empower young people, and we're determined to change that."
YPA members from across North Carolina will be testifying in support of both bills and urging legislators to prioritize the voices of the young people these laws are designed to protect.
Read the full release here.
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About Young People's Alliance: Young People's Alliance is a bipartisan, Gen Z-led nonprofit with 4,000+ members across 90+ campuses in 16 states. The organization is focused on creating a new American Dream through advocacy on creating opportunity, affordability, and community for young people.
Contact: press@youngpeoplesalliance.org