California Senate Passes Common Sense Media-Backed Social Media Warning Labels Legislation
Bill led by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan to require warning labels on addictive social media platforms is now on track to head to Governor Newsom’s desk
SAN FRANCISCO, September 11, 2025—Legislation to require warning labels on addictive social media platforms is on track to head to California Governor Gavin Newsom's desk. Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan authored Assembly Bill 56, which was sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta and Common Sense Media.
The bill to raise awareness among kids and teens online comes in response to extensive research showing that social media use can contribute to mental health issues in young people. Former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and more than 40 state attorneys general, including Bonta, have called for warning labels on addictive platforms.
Following the bill's passage, Common Sense Media Founder and CEO James P. Steyer issued the below statement:
"Hats off to the California legislature for voting to put kids first across our state.
"Common Sense Media thanks Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan and Attorney General Bonta for their leadership in getting AB 56 to the governor for his consideration. We strongly encourage him to sign this bill into law.
"Kids spend hours a day on addictive social media platforms, and for years we've watched these platforms take a devastating toll on their mental health and well-being. Families need and deserve to know the risks of excessive use, and providing clear warning labels — just like we do for other addictive products like tobacco and alcohol — will help to do that."
The bill comes at a time of growing awareness that kids are spending too much time on their devices and on social media, as witnessed by the growing movement across the states to restrict students' access to cell phones during the school day. Common Sense Media supports distraction-free learning during the day in combination with social media warning labels and digital literacy education to build healthy tech habits both in and out of the classroom.
More information about AB 56 can be found here.
About Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users worldwide and 1.4 million educators every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.