Executive Order leads statewide response to protect children, improve their mental health

Governor Glenn Youngkin has issued Executive Order 43, Empowering and Supporting Parents to Protect Their Children from Addictive Social Media & Establishment of the Reclaiming Childhood Task Force, to tackle a critical aspect of Virginia’s youth mental health crisis, the unrestricted use of cell phones and addictive social media platforms. 

The Governor will discuss EO 43 Nov. 23 during Virginia’s Reclaiming Childhood Youth Mental Health Summit in Richmond, of experts and stakeholders from across the Commonwealth who are addressing the alarming rise in mental health challenges among children and teens.

“Virginia and the nation’s children are facing a youth mental health crisis driven by the effects of unrestricted cell phone use and addictive social media platforms. The scope of this challenge is going to require all of us, private sector, non-profit organizations and government can support parents as they work to improve their children’s mental health,” said Gov. Youngkin.

“Executive Order 43 will empower parents with the tools they need to protect their children and sets the stage for a statewide response to reclaim childhood and ensure the next generation can thrive.”

The Executive Order mobilizes state agencies to provide resources for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to combat the negative effects of excessive social media use. It includes developing a “Social Media and Mental Health Toolkit,” a partnership with health providers to emphasize prevention strategies, and regional training for behavioral health professionals.

“One thing we have heard from mothers and fathers across the Commonwealth is that they are looking for information and guidance on how to make the best choices for their kids. The Reclaiming Childhood Task Force will unite families, experts, and communities to create a healthier future for Virginia’s children,” said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin.

The Reclaiming Childhood Task Force will convene parents, educators, mental health experts, faith leaders, public safety officials, private sector technology experts, and community leaders to identify actionable solutions to improve youth mental health outcomes. It will provide recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly and build upon the efforts from Executive Order 33, which introduced Cell Phone-Free Education in Virginia’s K-12 public schools.

“The pervasive use of social media, cell phones, and the addictive algorithms that power them are preventing kids from living out their true purpose and potential,” said Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly. “The Reclaiming Childhood Task Force will drive collaboration and innovation to address this mental health crisis and ensure our children grow up with the tools they need to thrive.”

“Government cannot be the sole solution to this social media crisis, but our schools are on the front lines of supporting students’ mental health and well-being,” said Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera. “Executive Order 43 directs our state agencies to provide research, tools, and resources that can support educators and parents as they create healthy, nurturing environments where students can focus on learning and growth.”

Today’s summit will highlight the growing youth mental health crisis, with expert presentations on the role of social media in rising rates of depression, anxiety, and incidents of self-harm. 

Executive Order 43 underscores Virginia’s commitment to protecting children and empowering parents as the state addresses the urgent challenges of the digital age.