Washington, D.C.—A bipartisan coalition of 44 attorneys general today sent a letter to congressional leadership opposing the Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act (KIDS Act), H.R. 7757, citing concerns that the legislation would limit states’ ability to address online harms affecting children and adolescents.
In the letter, the attorneys general highlight the growing risks digital platforms pose to minors and outline ongoing state enforcement actions and legislative efforts to address those harms. They note that states have led efforts to address issues related to social media, online content, gaming platforms, and emerging technologies.
The coalition raises concerns that the KIDS Act would broadly preempt state laws across multiple policy areas while allowing federal intervention that could restrict state enforcement authority. The attorneys general also identify gaps in the legislation, including the absence of a comprehensive duty of care requirement and limitations in protections related to age assurance and emerging technologies.
The coalition expresses support for federal approaches that complement state authority, including the Senate version of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which includes provisions designed to preserve state enforcement and strengthen protections for minors online.
The letter underscores the importance of allowing states to continue developing and enforcing policies that respond to evolving technology and protect children.
The letter was sponsored by the attorneys general of Connecticut, Hawaii, Ohio and Tennessee with the states of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, the Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming joining.
The letter was sent to Senate and House leadership and relevant congressional committees.