Manitoba will ban youth from using social media and AI chatbots, Premier Wab Kinew announced on Saturday.

The proposed law protecting youth from the harmful effects of social media will be the first of its kind in Canada.

The premier said the platforms are intentionally designed to get people “addicted to the infinite scroll,” contributing to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

“They’re doing these very awful things to kids all in the name of a few likes, all in the name of more engagement, and all in the name of money,” Kinew said at an NDP fundraising gala in Winnipeg on Saturday night.

“More money for a group of rich tech bros who already have a ton.”

Social media use among youth has been linked to health issues ranging from reduced sleep and attention to long-term mental health issues, but academics say more study is needed to establish causes.

  • kbal@fedia.io
    10·
    5 days ago

    It’s Wab Kinew so I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt and assume that his intentions are noble and good. Presumably he acts out of ignorance, led to a policy he doesn’t understand by people he shouldn’t have trusted. He probably thinks the only consequences will be that children aren’t allowed to use social media and AI any more.

    • rozodru@piefed.worldEnglish
      2·
      5 days ago

      Presumably he acts out of ignorance, led to a policy he doesn’t understand by people he shouldn’t have trusted.

      that’s like the textbook definition of the NDP. Honestly had hopes for this guy but now? same song and dance from the NDP.