NC lawmakers advance AI guidelines for public schools, social media limits for young teens

North Carolina lawmakers are advancing legislation to regulate artificial intelligence in public schools and restrict social media access for young teens. The Senate Rules Committee approved House Bill 301, which bans social media for children under 13 and requires parental consent for teens aged 14 to 16. State Rep. Jeff Zenger, the bill’s sponsor, emphasized protecting children from social media addiction and predators. The bill also addresses AI adoption in schools by directing the Department of Public Education to develop a statewide AI framework for the state’s 115 public school districts. State Sen. Dana Jones outlined plans to update computer science standards to include AI education and create a verified vendor list for safe AI programs in K-12 classrooms. Additionally, the Friday Institute at NC State University will develop 10 teacher training modules to ensure ethical and responsible AI use. Democrats raised concerns about funding, noting past instances where training programs lacked state financial support. Jones assured lawmakers that funding would be secured through the state budget, preventing local districts from bearing the cost. The bill is expected to receive a Senate floor vote this week. The legislation aims to balance AI’s educational potential with safeguards against misuse, while simultaneously addressing growing concerns over social media’s impact on young children. Supporters argue the measures will protect students from online risks while preparing them for technology-driven futures.