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Social media has become an ever-present, nearly inescapable part of our daily lives — in fact, you may have even found this newsletter on a social post. While social media has many benefits — from connecting loved ones to creating jobs — it can also have an enormously detrimental and dangerous impact on our young people.
Studies show that adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face double the risk of poor mental health, including depression and anxiety. Excessive and problematic social media use has been linked to sleep and attention problems, and feelings of exclusion.
Every young person, and every parent, guardian, and user should be made aware of the mental health risks associated with social media. I am sponsoring new legislation, Assembly Bill 56, which would require social media to come with a warning label for users of all ages. This isn’t the sole solution to the public health crisis at hand, but it is a critical tool to educating the public and shining a light on the dangerous reality we’ve been swiping through.
In service,
Rob
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Proposing Social Media Warning Labels
 Social media companies have demonstrated an unwillingness to tackle the mental health risks their platforms pose to youth, instead digging in deeper into harnessing addictive features and harmful content for the sake of profits. It is our responsibility to make sure consumers have access to information that may affect their health, so they can make the best choices for themselves and their families. Authored by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), Assembly Bill 56 would communicate the risks that social media engagement poses to young users by mandating warning labels.
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Defeating the Kroger-Albertsons Merger
 As the fifth largest economy in the world, California has an outsized responsibility in ensuring business practices are fair and competitive, and this week, we delivered. The end of the proposed $24.6 billion Kroger-Albertsons merger is a tremendous victory for grocery shoppers, workers, and businesses that compete fairly. I am proud of the work my office has done in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission and remain steadfast in my commitment to economic justice and protecting an economy where both businesses and families can thrive.
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Fighting Organized Retail Crime
 I also unveiled a new law enforcement bulletin highlighting the statutory changes and additions made to current law under the newly passed Proposition 36. Known as “The Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act,” Proposition 36 was passed by California voters on November 5, 2024 and takes effect on December 18, 2024. Ultimately, our success in combating organized retail crime hinges on our ability to work together, innovate, and remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting our neighborhoods and businesses. Let us harness the strength of our partnerships, the power of new legislation, and the collective resolve of our community to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
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Offering Charitable Giving Tips
 This time of year, as we gather with loved ones and reflect on the blessings in our lives, many individuals donate goods, volunteer time, or make financial contributions to support charitable organizations doing incredible work in our communities. Earlier this week, I partnered with two such organizations — Sharia’s Closet in San Diego and Midtown HART in Sacramento — to share tips and resources on how to donate safely. I encourage all Californians to extend a helping hand, but also be wary of potential scammers who might exploit your generosity and compassion.
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Announcing Groundbreaking Coalition to Reduce Gun Violence
 Together with 18 attorneys general, I announced the formation of a multistate coalition to hold irresponsible firearms industry members accountable for their actions that proliferate gun violence. This innovative and groundbreaking coalition has been established with the primary goal of addressing and reducing gun violence across various jurisdictions. Gun violence is a national issue that demands a united response. Together, we will work to eliminate reckless practices that endanger our citizens.
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Make a Difference at California DOJ
 Apply today to help DOJ protect the health, well-being, and public safety of Californians. Check out our featured jobs below and visit oag.ca.gov/careers for a full listing of available positions:
Deputy Attorney General Supervisor, Tort & Condemnation
Deputy Attorney General III, Employment Law
Deputy Attorney General IV, Cybercrime
Deputy Attorney General IV, Office of the Solicitor General
Deputy Attorney General IV, Antitrust Law
Assistant Director, Fiscal Management
Digital Forensic Investigator, DMFEA Investigations Section
Paralegal, Healthcare Rights & Access
Budget Analyst, Executive Office
Information Officer II, Office of Communications
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Post of the Week
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Video of the Week
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 Victoria’s 16 year old daughter Alexandra was led down a dark rabbit hole on social media—one that sadly led her to take her own life.
Now, Victoria fights to prevent other families from experiencing such devastating loss.
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Resource Corner
 Our Office of Community Awareness, Response, and Engagement (CARE) will be hosting a community briefing on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM on immigrant rights resources. We cannot let the incoming Trump administration’s threats of inhumane immigration policies create a culture of fear and mistrust that prevents immigrants from accessing vital public services.
You can register to attend the briefing here.
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