I recently had an unsettling experience while watching a TV-PG rated episode about the NASA Artemis missions with my children. The program was interrupted by mandatory, non-skippable advertisements for content far beyond the rating of what we were watching. These included an advert for "RAP SH!T" on Max (TV-MA), a trailer for The Nun (a rated R horror film), and Love Island (TV-MA).

This incident is not isolated; it reflects a broader issue with advertising standards on streaming platforms. Currently, there are no regulations that require ads to match the rating of the content being viewed. This lack of oversight can expose young viewers to inappropriate content, causing distress and confusion.

According to Common Sense Media, 71% of parents believe that their kids see inappropriate content online at least occasionally [1]. Moreover, research from Ofcom indicates that children aged 5-15 are spending around 20 hours per week online [2], increasing their exposure risk.

We call upon the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to implement stricter regulations regarding advertising on streaming services. Advertisements should be required to match or be lower than the rating of the viewed content in order to protect our children from unsuitable material.

Please sign this petition and join us in urging FCC for better regulation in this area.

[1] Common Sense Media
[2] Ofcom Children and Parents: Media Use and Attitudes Report