New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced Monday, October 19, that Rutgers University has been selected to host the state’s new Social Media Research Center, an initiative designed to study the effects of social media on children and strengthen online safety.
Speaking at the New Jersey State House in Trenton, Sherrill confirmed that the state’s Office of the Secretary of Higher Education had selected Rutgers to house the research center.
The initiative is part of her administration’s broader efforts to address concerns about children’s mental health, addictive technology features, and the influence of social media platforms on young people.
Research Focused on Children’s Well-Being
The center will conduct independent research into how social media affects children and adolescents, including the potential impact of addictive platform features and emerging online risks.
Researchers will also examine ways to promote healthier digital habits and provide recommendations to educators, families, and state policymakers.
According to Sherrill, the center will measure the effects of social media on children over the coming year and work with lawmakers to develop policies informed by its findings.
New Jersey Invests in Online Safety
The center was established under legislation signed by Sherrill on August 11, 2026, as part of a package of laws aimed at protecting children online.
The state allocated $500,000 in its 2027 fiscal year budget to support the research initiative.
The legislation also introduced stronger privacy protections for minors, restrictions on certain potentially addictive platform features, and greater accountability for technology companies.
The research center will examine whether warning labels and other measures could help reduce harmful or excessive social media use among young people.
Sherrill Criticizes Federal Inaction
During Monday’s announcement, Sherrill criticized Republican congressional leadership for failing to advance federal legislation intended to strengthen online protections for children.
She argued that technology companies should not be allowed to prioritize business interests over children’s safety.
The governor emphasized that New Jersey would continue pursuing stronger protections regardless of whether Congress takes additional action.
Rutgers to Play a Key Research Role
By selecting Rutgers University, New Jersey is placing the new initiative within one of the state’s major public research institutions.
The center is expected to produce research that will help policymakers better understand the relationship between digital technology and children’s mental health.
Its findings could also inform future state regulations and educational initiatives.
The announcement marks another step in New Jersey’s effort to address the challenges of growing up in an increasingly digital world.
Sources: Insider NJ, October 19, 2026 | Office of Governor Mikie Sherrill | NJ Office of the Secretary of Higher Education
By NJ RADAR Team