Canada has introduced sweeping digital safety legislation that would ban social media access for children under 16 and regulate AI chatbots through a new digital regulator. Companies failing to comply with safety standards could face penalties of 3% of global revenue or up to C$10 million ($7.2 million). Some platforms may be exempted if they meet certain safety requirements. The move follows Australia’s historic ban on social media for minors last December, the first such restriction globally.
Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture Marc Miller explained the urgency of the legislation. “Social media platforms and AI chatbots are designed to capture attention. They do not support healthy childhood development and have become a source of anxiety, isolation, depression, and a range of other mental health challenges for many young Canadians,” he said. “This legislation will provide a safer environment for young Canadians and empower them to connect in-person, build friendships, focus on school, and learn real-world skills so they can thrive.”
The bill comes weeks after families of victims from one of Canada’s worst mass shootings sued OpenAI, alleging the company knew the alleged killer was planning an attack through ChatGPT but failed to alert authorities. OpenAI did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Tech companies have signaled cooperation with the new standards. Google stated it is “committed to working with the federal government to establish higher safety standards for all platforms,” while Meta said it wants “safe, positive online experiences for young people” and is assessing the bill’s details. Elon Musk’s X did not respond to requests for comment.
Implementation will take considerable time. Government officials indicated the bill could take a year to pass Parliament, followed by 18 months to establish the digital regulator. Prime Minister Mark Carney holds a slim majority in Parliament, which is preparing for summer recess. Brett Caraway, an associate professor at the University of Toronto specializing in technology and privacy, noted Canada’s approach is more comprehensive than Australia’s. “The Canadian proposal would entail a more complex set of platform obligations and aims at a redesign of the social media ecosystem, whereas Australia’s law focuses on restricting access. The scope is also broader since the Canadian law would tackle AI as well,” he explained.
Other countries are also tightening regulations on children’s social media use. France, Denmark, and Poland are considering stricter rules, while Greece announced plans to ban access for those under 15 starting January 2027.
