Local media reported on Tuesday that France intends to prohibit children under 15 from using social media and limit cellphone usage in high schools starting next year.

The proposal seeks to reduce excessive screen time and protect minors from online hazards such as inappropriate content. President Macron has repeatedly pointed to social media as a contributing factor to violence among young people.

“Numerous studies and reports now verify the various risks posed by adolescents’ excessive use of digital screens,” a draft law stated, according to Le Monde.

The document further notes that children with unregulated online access have been exposed to “inappropriate content” and may face cyber-harassment or disruptions to their sleep patterns, per the outlet.

This proposal follows Australia’s lead, as the country introduced a world-first ban on social media for children under 16 in December—restricting access to platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

Macron is targeting January for Parliament to debate the proposal, with a possible implementation date of September next year, according to the local outlet.

In June, Macron stated he intended to advocate for similar regulations across the European Union (EU) following a fatal school stabbing in April that shocked the nation, Reuters reported.

Macron has previously taken multiple steps to digitally protect minors. However, technical challenges—including and lax enforcement—have hindered the effectiveness of these measures.

Cellphones have already been banned in French elementary and middle schools since 2018, according to Le Monde.

In 2023, France reportedly attempted to pass a law establishing a “digital legal age,” which required parental consent for social media users under 15. This law, however, was blocked by EU regulations.

In November, the European Parliament urged the EU to to address adolescent mental health issues, though final decisions rest with its member states, Reuters reported.