Saskatchewan to run postcard survey on social media ban

  • Canadian Press

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe looks on during a press conference before the release of provincial Saskatchewan budget in Regina, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Heywood Yu

REGINA -- The Saskatchewan government is launching a postcard survey to determine next steps on a possible social media ban for children.

Premier Scott Moe says his government wants to hear directly from residents about limits for those under 16.

Moe says the postcards ask whether there should be restrictions or some flexibility for parents to provide consent.

They also ask whether any social media platforms should be exempt from limits.

Moe says the feedback will help inform whether the government should implement an outright ban for youth or make no changes.

The postcards are to be returned by June 30, with results tabulated over the summer, and the campaign is expected to cost up to $500,000.

Saskatchewan is one of many governments looking at the issue. The federal government and other provinces, including Manitoba and Ontario, are examining tighter restrictions.

Moe told a news conference Tuesday that Ottawa is in the best position to impose social media limits, and Saskatchewan is prepared to work with its federal counterparts.

"We really want to hear directly from the families within Saskatchewan," he said.

Moe added there are some benefits to social media but it has harmed youth through online bullying and abuse.

Platforms have also aggravated the mental health of some youth, including creating feelings of depression and loneliness, he said.

"(There's also) exposures to dangerous content online, and so much more," Moe said.

He said Saskatchewan will follow the wishes of the people but that he personally believes some limits should be in place.

"I'm very much a proponent for us to be outside doing whatever it is we enjoy," he said. "I think that is much more productive time than spending it on social media."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 5, 2026.