Protect Digital Freedom in Virginia  Repeal the One-Hour Social Media Law

In May 2025, the Commonwealth of Virginia enacted a law set to take effect on January 1, 2026, restricting individuals under 16 to one hour per day on social media platforms, unless a parent provides verifiable consent.

While the law aims to address concerns about mental health and safety, it may inadvertently hinder educational opportunities, entrepreneurial endeavors, and personal development. Instead of providing resources and education, it imposes surveillance and restrictions.

Impact on Education

Educators and students frequently utilize platforms like YouTube for educational content, including lectures, tutorials, and documentaries. Limiting access to these resources can impede learning, especially for students relying on online materials for homework and exam preparation.

Research supports the educational benefits of social media:

A study published in Scientific Reports found that integrating social media into university teaching positively impacted student learning outcomes and satisfaction. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10560037)
Social media platforms can enhance interaction between students and teachers, providing easier access to learning resources and fostering higher learning creativity. (csic.georgetown.edu)
Hindrance to Young Entrepreneurs and Creators

Social media serves as a vital platform for young entrepreneurs and content creators to market their products, build audiences, and generate income. Restrictions on access can stifle innovation and limit economic opportunities.

Social media allows for real-time contact without time or geographical restrictions, enabling people to be both information makers and consumers. (ojs.jdss.org.pk)
The creator economy relies heavily on consistent engagement with audiences, which could be disrupted by stringent time limits on platform usage.

Ethical Considerations

While the intention to protect youth is commendable, the approach raises ethical concerns:

Autonomy: Imposing blanket restrictions may undermine the ability of young individuals to make informed choices about their online activities.
Equity: The law may disproportionately affect students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who rely on social media for educational resources and networking opportunities.
Privacy: Requiring age verification and monitoring usage could lead to data privacy issues.

Human Rights Implications

Access to the internet is increasingly recognized as a fundamental human right, essential for the exercise of freedom of expression and access to information.

The United Nations Human Rights Council has affirmed that the same rights people have offline must also be protected online, including the right to freedom of expression. (article19.org)
Restricting internet access can impede individuals' ability to participate fully in society and access essential services.
Our Request

We urge Governor Glenn Youngkin or governor future and the Virginia legislature to:

Reconsider the one-hour social media restriction before its implementation.
Engage with educators, mental health professionals, digital rights advocates, and the youth to develop policies that:

Respect privacy and individual rights.
Support educational access and digital literacy.
Address mental health concerns with targeted resources.
Empower families to make informed decisions about digital engagement.

TL;DR;

Virginia's upcoming law limits individuals under 16 to one hour of social media daily, potentially restricting educational resources, hindering young entrepreneurs, and infringing on privacy and human rights. We advocate for a more balanced approach that supports education, respects individual rights, and addresses mental health with appropriate resources.

Sign this petition to promote digital freedom and educational access in Virginia.