Lawmakers Push for Kids Online Safety Act Amid Rising Concerns Over Internet Dangers

As internet usage soars, particularly among teenagers, concerns about online safety are driving bipartisan efforts to enact new protective legislation. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) seeks to shield minors from online dangers by implementing safeguards, such as limiting access to personal data and providing enhanced parental control tools. According to a Pew Research Center survey, nearly half of U.S. teenagers report being online constantly. For Mary Rhode, the issue is personal. Her teenage son, Riley, tragically took his own life in 2021 after falling victim to an online blackmail scheme. "It's about saving children's lives, and this needs to happen now," Rhode said, urging Congress to advance the legislation. KOSA passed overwhelmingly in the Senate last July and progressed through the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Despite bipartisan support, House Speaker Mike Johnson has put the legislation on hold. "The speaker is virtually alone in the United States Congress," remarked Rhode. Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers in the House and Senate largely support the measure. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed optimism, noting, "The bill needs a little more tweaking, but I think we can finalize it early next year." Advocates argue that online protections for minors should mirror safeguards in the physical world. Lawmakers and families alike emphasize the urgency of addressing the issue, as internet platforms continue to grow in influence. For many parents, the Kids Online Safety Act represents not just legislation but a critical step toward accountability and security in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.