This comes after reports of Louisiana schools experiencing incidents arising from TikTok “challenges,” including acts of vandalism on school property and an assault on a disabled teacher. Cassidy hopes to use the input to better understand the impact of TikTok in Louisiana and to inform his legislative and oversight efforts on TikTok going forward.

The request was sent to all Louisiana school superintendents, who were encouraged to share the request with local administrators, faculty, and staff so they can convey feedback directly to Cassidy’s staff.

“While data privacy and potential security concerns associated with [TikTok], which is owned by a Chinese company, are well-known, studies have shown that certain aspects of TikTok’s functionality may also have serious consequences for the physical and mental health of children and young adults,” wrote Dr. Cassidy. “TikTok’s algorithm can reportedly identify and present users with content that reinforces unhealthy body image and eating habits, substance abuse, depression, and/or thoughts of committing self-harm or suicide.”

U.S. Senate HELP Committee | U.S. Senate HELP Committee

“As I represent Louisiana in national discussions surrounding TikTok, I would like to better understand the nature and extent of any problems that you, administrators, teachers, and other school personnel in your district are dealing with on a daily basis,” continued Dr. Cassidy. “All feedback that you and others choose to provide will inform my investigation and help me to better understand the impact that TikTok is having on schools and students in Louisiana.”

Original source can be found here