Marlton, NJ – Standing inside Cherokee High School this week, Governor Mikie Sherrill outlined what she described as a widening national failure to protect children online, pointing to rising mental health challenges among young people and the role of social media platforms. Joined by state lawmakers, education leaders, and parent advocates, Sherrill used the visit to highlight new steps in her administration’s youth online safety agenda. The announcement comes as families and schools continue to confront increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns among adolescents.
Sherrill framed the issue as both a public health and policy challenge, linking unrestricted social media use to broader trends affecting youth well-being. Her administration has moved to establish new infrastructure aimed at addressing those concerns while coordinating efforts across state agencies.
State launches new initiatives targeting online safety and youth mental health
“Across the nation, we are facing a stark reality – our kids are struggling with an unprecedented mental health crisis, and social media is playing a big part. As a mom of four, I can tell you with certainty that our country is failing our children when it comes to protecting them online,” said Governor Sherrill. “We have a responsibility to do better. My Administration is committed to counteracting the harms of social media and supporting youth mental health, and I am proud to put forward a plan that reflects these values.”
On her first day in office, Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 6, creating the Office of Youth Online Mental Health Safety within the Department of Health. The order directs state agencies overseeing children and technology-related issues to prioritize mental health outcomes and coordinate efforts to improve online safety.
Key Points
- Governor Sherrill announced new initiatives addressing youth mental health and social media risks
- A new state office and research center will focus on online safety and mental health outcomes
- The proposal includes targeted funding in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget
The governor’s Fiscal Year 2027 proposed budget includes $125,000 to support the newly created Office of Youth Online Mental Health Safety and Awareness. An additional $500,000 is allocated to establish New Jersey’s first Social Media Research Center, which will study how digital platforms affect children’s mental health and development.
Lawmakers and educators highlight impact on families and schools
“As a mom of three teenagers, I have a front-row seat to just how central social media is to young people’s lives. It plays a role in all of our lives, and it’s not going anywhere, but we also know the consequences of spending too much time online. Families are feeling those impacts every day: increased anxiety, depression, and eating disorders; disrupted sleep; and harmful content reaching kids far too easily,” said Assemblywoman Andrea Katz. “Now is the time to prioritize the mental health of New Jersey’s youth. Now is the time to make online spaces safer for minors in an ever-changing digital landscape. Now is the time to warn users about real mental health risks and equip families and educators with the knowledge they need to keep minors safe online. I look forward to working with Governor Sherrill’s administration to champion our kids and put their mental health first.”
Education and parent advocacy leaders also pointed to the growing strain on schools and families as they respond to student mental health needs. Jacqueline Gibbs, president of the New Jersey Parent Teacher Association, said the initiative signals a broader commitment to student well-being.
“As President of the New Jersey PTA, I applaud Governor Sherrill for making student mental health and children’s online safety a priority from day one. This action sends a strong message that the well-being of our children and families matter, and NJPTA stands ready to support these efforts,” said Jacqueline Gibbs. “We look forward to working alongside the Governor, the Legislature, and the Department of Health to make New Jersey a model for keeping every child safe – online and in school.”
Local school officials echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the need for sustained attention to student mental health. Lenape Regional High School District Superintendent Matt Webb said schools have expanded support systems but require ongoing collaboration with state leaders.
“The core of our mission, ensuring safety and advancing student achievement, cannot be fully realized unless students feel safe. That is why mental health has been a sustained priority for us over several years. We are proud to offer a range of comprehensive programs and supports designed to promote and protect the mental well-being of our students,” said Matt Webb. “As educators, we believe in lifelong learning, and that philosophy extends to mental health and safety, you are never truly finished. Just as physical health requires consistent care, one healthy choice today does not sustain you for the future. In the same way, mental health demands ongoing attention, maintenance, and a continued commitment to meaningful supports.”
State officials said the research center will be housed at a public institution of higher education and will examine how digital technology affects youth behavior, mental health outcomes, and long-term well-being. The administration has indicated the findings will guide future policy decisions and potential regulations involving social media platforms.
