Arkansas Governor Sanders Signs Another Controversial Bill Into Law

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders recently signed a bill imposing a minimum age limit of 18 years for most social media usage, with exemptions for YouTube, Microsoft, LinkedIn, and other cloud-based services. The bill aims to give parents greater control over Facebook, TikTok, and Snapchat, popular social media platforms among young people. While some people may see this as a positive move to protect children from the negative effects of social media, others view it as an unnecessary restriction on free speech and an intrusion into personal choice.

Governor Sanders defended the bill, stating that social media can have a massive negative impact on children and that parents should have more control over their children’s online activity. While social media can be a great tool and resource, it can expose children to cyberbullying, harassment, and inappropriate content. The state hopes to reduce these risks by imposing a minimum age limit and giving parents more tools to monitor and control their children’s online activity.

However, some people argue that this bill may have unintended consequences, such as driving young people to use less regulated social media platforms or limiting their ability to connect with friends and family online. Additionally, some critics argue that the bill may infringe on free speech and personal choice, as it places restrictions on who can use certain social media platforms based on age.

Governor Sanders has signed several controversial bills since taking office, catering to the Republican base and raising concerns about who is really pulling her strings. Here are three examples of bills that have sparked public outcry in Arkansas:

The Arkansas Unborn Child Protection Act: This bill, signed by Governor Sanders in 2021, bans abortions except in cases where the life of the mother is at risk. Pro-choice advocates have criticized the bill as an infringement on women’s reproductive rights and an attempt to overturn Roe v. Wade.

The Arkansas Religious Freedom Restoration Act: This bill, signed by Governor Sanders in 2021, allows individuals and businesses to claim a religious exemption from state laws that they believe infringe on their religious beliefs. Critics argue that the bill could be used to discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized groups.

The Arkansas Sovereignty Act: This bill, signed by Governor Sanders in 2021, asserts the state’s right to nullify federal laws that it deems unconstitutional. Critics argue that the bill undermines the federal government’s authority and could lead to legal challenges and conflicts between the state and federal governments.

It is necessary to highlight that any action a government official, including Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in the U.S. Constitution is a significant concern. The Constitution serves as the backbone of American democracy, and any attempt to suppress individual liberties is unacceptable.

Lawmakers must prioritize protecting the civil rights and freedoms of all individuals in their state, regardless of their personal beliefs or ideologies. Any attempt to impose laws that violate constitutional rights and liberties must be met with strong opposition and scrutiny. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the citizens to hold their elected officials accountable and ensure that their rights are protected under the law.

Image source, Sander’s social media