Press Releases

Johnson, Mcadams Introduce Proposal to Protect Children from Dangerous App Content

Resolution calls on tech industry to self-regulate app market utilized by millions of minors

 U.S. Representatives Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Ben McAdams (D-Utah) introduced a bipartisan resolution designed to empower parents to protect their children from dangerous and exploitative content on digital apps.

Specifically, the resolution calls on technology and app development companies to establish an industry-run app rating board to develop age-appropriate app ratings, user-friendly parental controls, digital wellness features and other tools to foster a safe, online environment for the millions of minors using apps daily.

“As parents of four children, Kelly and I have used movie, video game and music ratings to help decide what entertainment content is appropriate and safe for our family. Unfortunately, the tech industry does not hold digital apps to the same standard,” said Johnson. “For too long, apps have been allowed to serve as hubs for bullying, pornography and other types of content that jeopardize children’s safety and well-being. It’s time for Big Tech to step-up and do its part to make sure children are protected from dangerous and exploitative app content.”

“Salt Lake County police arrested 30 online predators in four days last month alone, in a crackdown on cybercrimes. Parents need accurate and complete information about the apps available to their kids and user-friendly parental controls to protect their children,” said McAdams. “This resolution calls on tech companies to provide that. Nothing should get in the way of keeping our kids safe from online exploitation.”