Two Common Sense Media-Backed Kids’ Online Safety Bills Pass Another Key Hurdle in California Legislature
Bills led by Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan would require warning labels on social media platforms and establish safety standards for AI systems used by kids
SAN FRANCISCO, April 30, 2025 — The California Assembly Judiciary Committee yesterday gave its approval to two critical kids' online safety bills sponsored by Common Sense Media and authored by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, a strong show of support for these important measures. Assembly Bill 56 would require social media companies to place warning labels on their platforms, while Assembly Bill 1064 would be the first legislation in the country to keep children safe from the riskiest applications of AI.
In response, James P. Steyer, Founder and CEO of Common Sense Media, issued the following statement:
"We applaud the Assembly Judiciary Committee and Chairman Kalra for approving these critical bills to keep kids safe online and to protect them from the risks of new technology. We also thank Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan for her leadership on both bills, as well as the broad coalition of advocates who are working with us to build a safer, healthier, better online future for all children.
"By requiring warning labels on social media platforms, just like we do for other addictive products like tobacco and alcohol, AB56 will make sure families have the facts about the risks associated with social media use. We are grateful to Attorney General Bonta for his sponsorship of this bill.
"Of course, in the age of AI, the threats to kids' online safety go beyond social media. Kids are already using AI for education, entertainment, and more, and our laws need to keep up. Before we let kids use AI tools, we need to know if those tools are safe for them to use. That's why AB1064's focus on transparency, safety, and accountability will make sure families have the tools they need to navigate the risks of AI and protect kids from unsafe AI systems — including a ban on AI companions.
"We look forward to the Appropriations Committee and full Assembly's support for these bills and to working with state senators to get these bills sent to Governor Newsom."
A fact sheet on AB56 can be found here and on AB1064 here. The bills will be considered next by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
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 1.3 million educators every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.