By David Boles, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, St. Albert Gazette
June 17, 2026
An Alberta school board is awaiting to see what a federal bill to restrict social media access to youths looks like in its final form.
Rocky View Schools says in a statement its aware of the legislation proposed by the federal government and notes it will monitor it for “any developments that may impact schools and students.”
The school board also says it is supportive teaching digital citizenship to students so they can use the internet in a safe and responsible manner in and out of a school environment.
The federal Liberal government tabled the Online Harms Bill in the House of Commons on Wednesday, with a provision in it being that those 16 years old and younger would be banned from using social media.
The bill has strictly been tabled at this time, and has not been voted in either chamber of Parliament.
Both the official opposition Conservatives and NDP say they’re looking into the bill at this time.
In recent years, many nations have moved to block social media access to those under 16, including France, whose president Emmanuel Macron offered his support of Canada’s idea to take this step.
Within the boundaries of the 49th parallel, provinces have also been proactive.
In 2024, the Alberta government banned phones in classrooms, with the then-Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides saying at the time that cellphone could serve as distraction to learning.
The ban came into effect for the 2024-2025 school year.
Subscribe to our newsletter.
Other provinces that have taken similar action to Alberta include British Columbia, Manitoba and Quebec, the last of which has completely banned phones during school days, including during breaks and recess periods.
