Mississippi Enacts Law Mandating Digital Safety Curriculum and Empowering AG to Sue Tech Over Child Harms

The state of Mississippi has moved to bolster online child protection, with Governor Tate Reeves signing the "Keeping Kids Safe Online Act." This legislation addresses growing concerns about digital environments and their impact on young users. Proponents highlight the law's dual focus: educating children and holding technology companies accountable.

The new Mississippi law mandates the Department of Education to develop and implement a digital safety curriculum. This program will serve middle and high school students, specifically targeting grades 6 through 12. The curriculum aims to equip young people with essential knowledge for navigating online spaces safely.

Additionally, the legislation empowers the state's Attorney General to initiate legal proceedings against tech firms. This authority applies when companies fail to disclose potentially harmful or addictive features of their platforms to parents and children. This measure provides the state with direct legal tools to address perceived industry shortcomings.

Brian Montgomery, an advocate for online child safety, observed that the new law prioritizes awareness. He stated the legislation focuses on requiring technology companies to be honest about their products. This perspective frames the law as a mechanism for increased transparency from the tech sector.

The law, effective July 1, represents a proactive step in regulating online spaces for minors. It signals an increased expectation for digital platforms to be transparent about features that could impact young users. The combination of educational mandates and expanded legal powers suggests a multi-pronged approach to child safety online. Observers will now watch how the Mississippi Department of Education develops and rolls out the curriculum, and how the Attorney General's office utilizes its new enforcement capabilities against technology companies.