Kean Introduces Bill to Protect Children Online, Adding New Parental Controls to Video Games

(November 26, 2025) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the introduction of the Safer GAMING Act, legislation that would require online video game providers to embed safeguards that help parents better protect minors from harmful interactions on gaming platforms.

The Safer GAMING Act sets new requirements for interactive online video games, which are defined as games that connect to the internet and allow users to communicate with others across the platform. It requires video game creators to offer parents tools to disable communication between a minor and other users of the game. The bill applies to video games accessible through websites, mobile applications, or other online means, and tasks the Federal Trade Commission with carrying out enforcement.  

“Many parents are highly cognizant of the fact that online video games can open the door to inappropriate content and malicious actors targeting children,” said Congressman Kean. "Without video game creators embedding protective tools, it can be challenging for families to manage these risks and safeguard their children. My new bill would add critical parental controls, giving parents the option to turn off chat functions and prevent unsafe interactions with adults and strangers.” 

Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. 

The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade will hold a hearing entitled “Legislative Solutions to Protect Children and Teens Online” on December 2, 2025. The hearing will examine several proposed measures, including the Safer GAMING Act, focused on improving online safety and reducing risk for adolescents interacting with social media, video games, chatbots, and more.

A copy of the bill text is available HERE.
 

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