TOTAL Screen Time Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Whitesides, George [D-CA-27]
- Committees
- Science, Space, and Technology Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 14, 2026
Bottom line
This bill directs NIST to facilitate the creation of a voluntary, privacy-focused technical standard for parents to manage minors' screentime across multiple devices.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to convene stakeholders and support the development of a voluntary technical standard for setting screentime limits across various electronic devices. The standard must include an authentication model for minors and their parents, minimize data exchange, avoid centralized databases of minor activity, and not compromise device cybersecurity. NIST is also required to report biennially on the standard's development and adoption.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill addresses growing public health concerns about excessive screentime among minors by promoting a standardized, privacy-conscious tool for parents to manage device usage effectively. They contend it empowers families without imposing mandates, fostering industry collaboration for a common solution that protects both children and their data.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that mandating NIST to develop a 'voluntary' standard represents an unnecessary government intervention into private technology development and parental choices. They could also express concerns that any standard, even voluntary, could inadvertently lead to data collection risks or stifle innovation in device features, despite the bill's safeguards.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and comprehensive understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(a)
Development of Voluntary Technical Standard for Screentime Limits
This section requires the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to solicit public comment and convene various stakeholders within 180 days of the bill's enactment. The goal is to support the development of a voluntary technical standard for setting screentime limits across covered devices. The standard must include an authentication and authorization model for minors and their parents, minimize data exchange, avoid centralized databases of minor activity, and not compromise device cybersecurity.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is crucial for addressing the public health concerns associated with excessive screentime for minors. By fostering a voluntary, privacy-preserving standard, it provides parents with effective tools to manage their children's digital consumption across various devices without imposing burdensome regulations on industry.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that while the intent is good, a 'voluntary' standard developed by a government agency could still create de facto pressure on industry, potentially stifling innovation or leading to a one-size-fits-all approach that doesn't account for diverse family needs or technological advancements.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for parental control over screentime and the need for industry flexibility and innovation. It also navigates the tension between creating a useful standard and ensuring user privacy by explicitly prohibiting centralized data collection.
Section 2(b)
Stakeholder Engagement
This subsection specifies the diverse group of stakeholders NIST must convene for the development of the voluntary technical standard. This includes government agencies like the Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information, the FTC Chair, the Information Security and Privacy Advisory Board, and the Surgeon General. It also mandates the inclusion of private sector entities such as developers of covered devices, medical professional organizations treating minors, privacy and minor safety advocacy groups, and international standards organizations, along with any other entity NIST deems appropriate.
Section 2(c)
Reporting Requirements
This section mandates that NIST submit a report to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and publish it publicly. The initial report is due one year after enactment, and subsequent reports are due biennially thereafter until January 1, 2032. These reports must detail the progress of the standard's development and adoption, and include any recommendations from NIST to support further development and adoption.