Tech Wellness for Young Men Act

Bill Summary: Tech Wellness for Young Men Act (H.R. 6679)

Overview

The Tech Wellness for Young Men Act is a legislative proposal introduced in the 119th Congress to address the growing concern of "screen addiction" among young men in the United States. The primary purpose of the bill is to mandate a federal study to determine how excessive digital consumption affects the mental health, social development, and behavioral patterns of males during critical developmental years.

Key Provisions

The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), working in coordination with the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health and the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, to conduct a comprehensive national study.

Scope of the Study

The research will specifically target young men aged 12 to 25 and focus on several critical areas:
* Mental Health: Investigating the link between excessive screen use and rates of depression, anxiety, suicidality, and violent tendencies.
* Developmental Impacts: Examining effects on impulse control, attention spans, emotional development, and academic performance.
* Social Relationships: Analyzing the erosion of interpersonal connections, including family communication, friendships, and dating.
* Digital Patterns: Identifying compulsive usage patterns related to social media, streaming, and gaming.
* Societal Engagement: Evaluating the correlation between screen addiction and disengagement from physical activity, civic participation, and school/extracurriculars.

Collaborative Effort

To ensure the accuracy and depth of the study, the Secretary is required to consult with a diverse range of stakeholders, including:
* Experts in adolescent psychiatry, addiction science, and behavioral health.
* Youth-serving nonprofits and school-based health centers.
* Professionals specializing in gaming design, human-computer interaction, and social media ethics.

Impact and Deliverables

The bill is designed to produce data-driven insights rather than immediate regulatory changes. The final output will be a comprehensive report submitted to Congress and published on the HHS public website. This report must include an identification of specific subgroups of young men who are most vulnerable to the effects of excessive screen use.

Timeline and Procedural Status

• Introduced: December 11, 2025.
• Committee Referral: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
• Deadline: If enacted, the final report must be submitted to Congress within 18 months of the Act's date of enactment.