If you know anything about the prevalence of human trafficking and how predators often access victims, you know the role that social media has played in the increase of human trafficking numbers both globally and here in America. Since social media is so closely intertwined with human trafficking and how criminals victimize girls, many lawmakers have tried to aim social media overall legally to protect kids from being victimized even more. According to a Los Angeles Times article, not only do predators use social media to recruit minors who are then sold for sex but they also are using these platforms to initiate live streams and pay them for certain behaviors or “performances,” to put it delicately. Of course, also wrapped up in this mess is the growth of fentanyl abuse, a problem that has exploded in recent years and yet another, which has also been backed and helped along by social media. 

What California Lawmakers Want to Do

With the proven use of TikTok and Snapchat being tied to drug overdoses and payment for sexual favors, California lawmakers feel that now is the time to set some harsh limitations on these social media platforms and others like it to protect the youth of America. One proposed bill would hold social media companies responsible for the promotion and illegal sale of fentanyl as well as punish them for targeting youth with content that could lead to suicide or eating disorders. Another bill would demand that sites permanently delete videos or photos of minors upon their request and would also allow for lawsuits to be brought against various social media platforms that facilitate the commercial exploitation of minors in a sexual capacity. 

More About The Attempt to Protect Kids

Regardless of political preferences, both parties can agree that the protection of kids is of utmost importance. According to Buffy Wicks, who is an Oakland Democrat introducing legislation aimed at curbing social media as a method of exploitation for teens and children, “The current legal system isn’t protecting our kids. It’s something we have to tackle. I know they don’t want to be held liable for what happens on their platforms, but as any parent knows, we have to take more action. What we’re doing is not working.”