Lawmakers push for age-appropriate design code to combat online bullying and protect children
May 09, 2024 | HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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The Vermont House of Representatives convened on May 9, 2024, to discuss critical legislation aimed at addressing online bullying and enhancing protections for children using social media. The session focused on the proposed amendments to House Bill 121 and Senate Bill 290289, which include an age-appropriate design code intended to safeguard young users from harmful online interactions.
The discussion began with a call for support from a member who emphasized the importance of passing the bill. They urged their colleagues to consider the impact of the legislation on constituents, stating, "You can go home and tell our constituents that we protected you if we pass this bill." This sentiment underscored the urgency and significance of the proposed measures.
A key contributor to the debate was a representative from Hyde Park, who shared personal experiences as both an educator and a parent. They recounted their tenure as a middle school principal, where they witnessed the profound effects of online bullying on students. The representative expressed gratitude for the bill, stating, "This is the bill that I wish I had had 12 years ago," highlighting the need for effective tools to combat online harassment.
The representative also detailed a troubling incident involving their daughter, who faced relentless bullying on TikTok. They described how the app's design facilitated anonymous messaging, making it difficult for parents and educators to identify and address the perpetrators. This personal narrative illustrated the real-world consequences of inadequate protections in social media platforms, emphasizing the necessity for legislative action.
As the session progressed, members prepared to vote on whether to concur with the Senate's proposal for amendment. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to enhancing the safety of children online and addressing the challenges posed by social media.
In conclusion, the Vermont House's deliberations on May 9 highlighted the critical need for legislative measures to protect young users from online bullying. The proposed amendments aim to create a safer digital environment, with representatives advocating for the bill based on both personal experiences and a commitment to their constituents' welfare. The outcome of the vote will determine the next steps in advancing these important protections.
The discussion began with a call for support from a member who emphasized the importance of passing the bill. They urged their colleagues to consider the impact of the legislation on constituents, stating, "You can go home and tell our constituents that we protected you if we pass this bill." This sentiment underscored the urgency and significance of the proposed measures.
A key contributor to the debate was a representative from Hyde Park, who shared personal experiences as both an educator and a parent. They recounted their tenure as a middle school principal, where they witnessed the profound effects of online bullying on students. The representative expressed gratitude for the bill, stating, "This is the bill that I wish I had had 12 years ago," highlighting the need for effective tools to combat online harassment.
The representative also detailed a troubling incident involving their daughter, who faced relentless bullying on TikTok. They described how the app's design facilitated anonymous messaging, making it difficult for parents and educators to identify and address the perpetrators. This personal narrative illustrated the real-world consequences of inadequate protections in social media platforms, emphasizing the necessity for legislative action.
As the session progressed, members prepared to vote on whether to concur with the Senate's proposal for amendment. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to enhancing the safety of children online and addressing the challenges posed by social media.
In conclusion, the Vermont House's deliberations on May 9 highlighted the critical need for legislative measures to protect young users from online bullying. The proposed amendments aim to create a safer digital environment, with representatives advocating for the bill based on both personal experiences and a commitment to their constituents' welfare. The outcome of the vote will determine the next steps in advancing these important protections.
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