New Virginia law limits kids’ social media use, sparks mental health conversations

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A new law in Virginia will soon limit the amount of time kids can spend on social media. Mental health experts say the change may come as a much-needed intervention.

“Kids are spending an exuberant amount of time on screens right now," said Anna McChesney, a therapist and CEO of the Center for Creative Healing.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, kids under the age of 16 will be restricted to just one hour per day per social media platform.

McChesney said many young clients are coming into therapy feeling isolated and emotionally distant -- and she sees a direct link to their online habits.

“It’s as if they missed some of the developmental things that happen, particularly during play,” she said.

The legislation, signed earlier this year by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, requires platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Pinterest and X to enforce the limit through default settings. Parents will have the option to adjust those limits.

“A lot of what parents come in with is the stress they’re feeling because their kid won’t disconnect from their phone,” McChesney said. “Or the huge blowups that happen when they try to take the phone away.”

McChesney said some online content can be beneficial, but she warns of the dangers of over-consumption.

“You go down this rabbit hole … kids or adults are watching and gathering information that’s no longer sound,” she said.

Social media companies that fail to comply with the law could face penalties under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act once it goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2026.