California Adopts First-in-Nation Safeguards for Kids Online

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed into law a first-in-the-US bill that directs online platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to step up their privacy and safety protections for children and teens.

The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act adds to the state’s collection of consumer data privacy laws, which have spurred similar action in other states. The latest law is expected to impact social media platforms, along with the video game industry and other online services likely to be accessed by children under age 18.

The law, which will go into effect in 2024, threatens fines as ...