The Saskatchewan government has announced that households across the province will soon receive postcards containing survey questions about a proposal to restrict social media use for youth. Premier Scott Moe stated during a news conference at the Saskatchewan Legislative Building that the input of parents and families is crucial for shaping the province's stance on this issue.
Survey Details
The postcard survey includes four questions. It asks whether participants support social media limits for children under 16. If not, it inquires about support for parental consent requirements for those under 16. For those who support limits, the survey asks whether certain social media platforms should be exempted and what age range the restriction should cover.
Government's Position
Premier Moe emphasized that while the province can consider measures, a federal ban or limitation would likely be more effective than a patchwork of provincial rules. He noted that the issue requires nuanced discussion beyond simply banning social media for youth under 16. The survey results will help frame Saskatchewan's dialogue with the federal government.
Context and Costs
The federal Liberal party recently passed a resolution calling for an age restriction on social media access for minors under 16. Australia has already enacted such a ban, and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has announced similar plans. The Saskatchewan survey, which includes postage-paid return cards, is expected to cost the province approximately half a million dollars if all cards are returned.
Premier Moe expressed interest in seeing the survey results, stating that the process will be informative and that the government remains open to where the findings may lead.
