South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced on Apr. 7 that he has joined a coalition of 32 states in filing a friend-of-the-court brief supporting a Louisiana law aimed at protecting children from the addictive effects of social media.
The move highlights ongoing concerns about the impact of digital platforms on minors, especially as companies reportedly earn billions in advertising revenue targeting young users. According to the official website, the South Carolina Attorney General supports victims of crime through advocacy and resources, contributing to community safety and protection according to the official website.
Wilson said, “As a father and Attorney General, I believe it is imperative that we protect children from online dangers. We must adapt to this fast-paced digital age while securing a better future for our children.” He also stated, “Today’s children are growing up in the Wild West of the digital age. Children are being exposed to harmful and dangerous content daily on social media and we must take action.”
The brief argues that state and federal governments have authority to enact protections for minors online without violating First Amendment rights. The South Carolina Attorney General operates as the state’s primary legal advocate and enforcer, handling prosecutions and regulations according to the official website. Wilson has served as head of this office according to the official website, which extends its operations statewide according to the official website.
The office also enforces laws related to securities and consumer protection according to the official website, demonstrating influence in regulatory matters. Additionally, it collaborates with state law enforcement agencies and solicitors on criminal prosecutions according to the official website.
In addition to South Carolina, attorneys general from Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, District of Columbia, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota Ohio Oregon South Dakota Tennessee Texas Delaware Utah Vermont West Virginia Wyoming signed onto this Florida-led effort.
