Sec. 2. Findings
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/bill/117/s/2918/is/section-2·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
Congress finds the following: Children increasingly consume digital entertainment on the internet and are uniquely susceptible to manipulation online, given their lack of important neurological and psychological capabilities which are developed later in adulthood. Today’s digital media environment, which is constantly evolving and now includes high-tech experiences, such as augmented reality and virtual reality, is largely designed in non-transparent ways to ensure children interact with content that reflect the interests and goals of content producers, online platforms, and marketers.
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other complex systems are used to make continuous decisions about how online content for children can be personalized to increase engagement. Online companies gather, analyze, and use data for behavioral marketing directed at children. Companies employ sophisticated strategies, including neuromarketing, to affect consumer behavior and manipulate online users’ decision making. Branded content in various forms of multimedia, including native advertising and influencer marketing, exposes children to marketing that is inherently manipulative or purposely disguised as entertainment or other information.