Vermont group files complaint against Snapchat over youth addiction and design defects

The Vermont House Commerce Committee meeting on April 8, 2025, focused on the urgent issue of social media addiction among youth, particularly concerning platforms like TikTok and Snapchat. The discussions highlighted the detrimental effects of compulsive use on children aged 8 to 22, emphasizing the need for legislative action to protect young users.

A key point raised during the meeting was a recent attorney general complaint referencing internal TikTok documents that acknowledged the platform's design encourages compulsive usage. This compulsive behavior has been linked to various negative mental health outcomes, including anxiety and diminished cognitive skills. The committee heard testimonies from advocates who have spent years gathering data from families affected by social media addiction, including reviewing medical records and personal accounts of trauma.

The proposed legislation, identified as Bill S69, aims to address product design flaws that contribute to these issues. Advocates argued that current parental controls and oversight are insufficient to protect children from the inherent dangers of these platforms. They cited specific examples of how social media companies use manipulative design techniques, such as gamification and misleading messaging, to keep users engaged, often at the expense of their well-being.

The meeting also featured the stories of two young women, referred to as Elizabeth and Shannon, who began using Snapchat at a young age. Their experiences illustrate the profound impact of social media on their lives, leading to addiction and significant mental health challenges. The advocates stressed that these platforms are designed to exploit vulnerabilities in children, making it crucial for lawmakers to take action.

In conclusion, the Vermont House Commerce Committee's discussions underscored the pressing need for regulatory measures to mitigate the harmful effects of social media on youth. The proposed Bill S69 represents a step towards creating safer digital environments for children, aiming to curb the compulsive use of these platforms and protect their mental health.