Manitoba to Restrict Social Media and AI Chatbots for Minors

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said the province's ban on social media and AI chatbots for minors will likely prevent teachers from using YouTube in classrooms. Kinew made the comments in an interview with CBC's The House that aired on Saturday. He noted that even YouTube Kids includes autoplay and recommendation features.

The ban was announced last month and would be the first of its kind in Canada. The first phase is expected to begin in schools, following the approach used for cellphone restrictions in 2024. Kinew said the province will proceed regardless of federal action but will coordinate with Ottawa if similar rules are adopted nationally.

Miller said last month the government was seriously considering comparable restrictions. Liberal Party members passed two non-binding resolutions urging limits for users under 16. On Friday, The Logic reported the federal government is moving forward with social media restrictions and debating whether to include AI chatbots. A spokesperson for Miller's office said no decisions have been made.

School in Stittsville, Ontario, expressed mixed opinions. Some said they would prefer guidance from parents and schools rather than an outright ban. Others who already face parental restrictions said they value the limits and use the time for reading.

Curran, Meta Canada's head of public policy, said the company will comply if restrictions are enacted. She argued that a full ban is not the most effective approach and pointed to enforcement challenges observed in Australia.