CCIA Raises Free Speech and Access Concerns with Hawaii Social Media Bill

Washington – The Computer & Communications Industry Association will testify today before the Hawaii House Committee on Health and the House Committee on Human Services and Homelessness in opposition to SB 2761, legislation that would prohibit individuals under the age of sixteen from accessing social media platforms.

CCIA supports efforts to improve online safety for young people and notes that technology companies have invested significantly in parental controls, privacy protections, and tools that allow families to tailor online experiences based on a child’s developmental needs.

The association will warn that SB 2761 could restrict access to lawful online content and raise significant constitutional concerns. CCIA will highlight:

• Courts have repeatedly found minors are entitled to First Amendment protections and that broad restrictions on access to digital platforms may prevent young users from engaging with information, educational resources, and supportive online communities.
• Social media can provide important opportunities for connection and self-expression, particularly for young people who may not have access to similar support networks offline.

The following statement can be attributed to CCIA State Policy Manager, West Region, Aodhan Downey, who will testify before the committees today:

“Online safety and freedom are important. For many teens, online spaces are not just entertainment. They are where young people learn, communicate, and build a sense of belonging. Broad restrictions on access to social media could isolate teens from supportive communities and limit their ability to participate in public life. Lawmakers should pursue more targeted approaches that empower families and protect young users without restricting access to lawful speech.”