The Young People's Alliance (YPA) commends the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision allowing most provisions of California's Age-Appropriate Design Code to take effect after years of legal challenges fueled by tech industry groups.
The ruling clears the way for long-delayed protections designed to ensure that digital platforms prioritize the safety and well-being of young users. For years, litigation blocked a law intended to address the design choices and algorithms that shape young people's experiences online.
Young people across the country have been sounding the alarm about platforms built to maximize engagement rather than protect users and their mental health. Today's decision is a needed step in the right direction toward holding tech companies accountable for the environments they create.
"My generation should not have to choose between participating in the digital world and having control over our own lives," said Sam Hiner, Executive Director of the Young People's Alliance. "This ruling is a critical step toward fulfilling the promise of social media rather than forcing users to accept platforms that divide and isolate us for profit."
As policymakers continue debating national solutions, states have increasingly stepped in to pass protections for young people online. Young People's Alliance will continue working with young people and allies across state and party lines to ensure young voices remain central to the conversation about the future of technology.
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 3,000+ members across 78+ campuses in 15 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