New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt wants the federal government to ban children under 16 from using social media. She outlined this demand in a letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney released on Tuesday.

According to a report by The Canadian Press, Holt also asked Ottawa to stop social media companies from advertising to minors. She wants to block the development of content designed to prey on young people.

Provincial Backup Plan

If the federal government fails to act quickly, New Brunswick is ready to step in. Holt told reporters her government will use provincial tools to protect youth online. A national solution remains her top choice.

Her office confirmed the province is actively examining additional measures. These include consumer protection laws, privacy legislation, and school education campaigns. You will see these roll out if federal legislation falls short.

Federal Legislation on the Horizon

The federal Liberals plan to table a bill on Wednesday that includes the ban Holt requested. Federal Culture Minister Marc Miller emphasized the urgency of the situation.

“It is obvious why it is a priority. Kids are dying,” Miller told reporters on Parliament Hill. He added that the government will take all reasonable measures to ensure kids are safe.

Federal ministers declined to give specific details about the bill before its introduction. Representatives for Carney did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Premier Susan Holt asking the federal government to do?

She wants a national ban on social media for children under 16. She also wants restrictions on advertising and predatory content targeting minors.

What happens if the federal government does not pass the ban?

New Brunswick plans to use provincial jurisdiction to enforce its own protections. This includes consumer protection laws and privacy legislation.

When will the federal government introduce the new legislation?

The federal Liberals are expected to table a bill addressing online safety for minors on Wednesday.