I was 14 years old, in a pandemic, when I realized that I was struggling with technology use. I was addicted to my phone, constantly on my computer, and going down a dark path. Similarly, close friends went into a state of anxiety and depression, and they felt like they were trapped and unable to escape. That was when I confronted my parents. How they educated me on the pitfalls and how to overcome them changed my path completely. My mission has been to prevent other kids from going down the same route, but it requires change and, more importantly, the activism of teens and adults.

The Senate is reviewing the new Kids Online Safety Act, which will legislate how social media companies must enhance their platforms for minors (under 17 years old). They have shaped the bill to ensure it can survive a legal challenge in the Supreme Court, specifically regarding freedom of speech and our First Amendment rights. For that very reason, the bill will allow:

Any minor under 17 can search for harmful content such as eating disorders, substance abuse, suicide, depression, and more if they do it independently. Nothing in the platform will prevent them from searching for such content due to their First Amendment rights. 

However, the real answer lies in preserving our First Amendment rights but still protecting minors. The platforms should be required to educate the minors if they search for any such content independently. Based on our research, most of the education involved should allow the minor to pause and reflect on their decision but still have the option to continue. The law will survive a First Amendment challenge, and based on our experience, most kids will change their choices entirely once they know the risks. 

I implore you to stand with me in this crucial endeavor. Your support and advocacy for the inclusion of language about educating minors in the Kids Online Safety Act are not just a matter of policy but a matter of saving countless young lives. Your voice, your influence, can make a world of difference. 

Thank you,

Aahil Valliani

17-year-old CEO and Founder of safekids.ai