Canada has proposed new legislation that could restrict social media use among children and teenagers under 16, while giving technology companies an opportunity to avoid a blanket ban if they can prove they have adequate safeguards in place.
The Safe Social Media Act was introduced in the House of Commons on Wednesday by Culture Minister Marc Miller. It comes after mounting pressure on the government to take stronger action against online risks facing younger users, following two unsuccessful attempts by the previous Liberal administration to pass similar measures.
Earlier this week, Miller said tackling online harm had become an urgent priority because “kids are dying.”
“Suffice to say, we will take all reasonable measures to make sure kids are safe in this country,” he told reporters.
Canada’s proposal differs from the approach taken by Australia, which introduced restrictions preventing under-16s from opening accounts on platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Under the Canadian model, companies could be exempted if they demonstrate that their policies and systems reduce potential harm to minors.
The bill would also introduce new rules for artificial intelligence chatbots and place limits on harmful online material. Content involving child bullying, hatred, and incitement to violence would fall within the scope of the legislation.
A new independent regulator, the Digital Safety Commission of Canada, would be established to oversee compliance. Technology companies found to have breached the rules could face penalties of up to C$10 million, or 3% of their global revenue, whichever is higher.
The debate over online safety has intensified in Canada following a school shooting in British Columbia in February. The 18-year-old suspect had reportedly used ChatGPT to discuss gun violence in the months before the attack, which left eight people dead, including six young children.
Other countries are also considering stronger restrictions on social media access for younger users. The UK is examining further measures, while Greece is preparing to introduce a ban for children under 15.
Sara Austin of Children First Canada said the exemption clause could encourage companies to make their platforms safer. She said improved protections “will not only benefit children, but will also benefit all Canadians” who use social media.