Social Media Settlements / Fund IRL Could Lead to Less Screen Time / More Green Time
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In August 2026, META settled a lawsuit brought by Attorneys General across the country, acknowledging the impacts of social media on young people including mental health challenges and feelings of isolation. Georgia's settlement was $135 million, part of which is a contingency that will only be paid if other social media companies also settle lawsuits against them (resulting in additional settlements). At least half the funds have to be spent remediating harmful effects of social media on youth. Outdoor learning and nature experiences are eligible uses of the funds that help reduce screen time and increase green time.
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SB 148: Outdoor Learning Spaces Pilot Program Passed Unanimously but Not Yet Funded
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Congratulations to Senator Sheikh Rahman, Senator Bo Hatchett, and Representative Soo Hong, sponsors of SB 148: the Outdoor Learning Spaces Pilot Program. The bill passed with unanimous support (per LegisScan: "slightly partisan Republican 2:1"). EEA is grateful to every legislator for their support of outdoor learning.
When funded, the act will support 3-year pilot projects that are designed to assess the use and value of schoolyards as outdoor learning labs. In addition, the legislation supports hunter safety education, defibrillators in schools, and an increase to 5 personal leave days for Georgia teachers. |
GOLD Grants (Georgia Outdoor Learning Demonstration) Renewed for 5th Year
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GOLD Grants entered the fifth funding cycle in fall of 2026. These small grants ($500 - $5000) are awarded to schools, school districts, non-profits, or public agencies for four types of outdoor learning projects: schoolyard improvements, professional learning for educators, student supplies, and field trips. At the current appropriation level of $100,000, only about 20 grants can be awarded each year. Of the 90% of applications that are not selected, many are worthy and eligible, with approximately 80 of the remaining applications considered highly-qualified. It is hoped that additional funds will be available for future grant rounds.
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Georgia School Playground Standards Require Outdoor Learning Spaces
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Recently-passed legislation in Georgia provides standards for new school playgrounds including requirements for minimum size, unitary surfaces, extent of shade, fencing, and outdoor learning spaces. EEA recommends that the requirements be tweaked slightly when the law is implemented, as suggested in the report linked below, at the Learn More button. The legislation takes effect this year.
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Revitalizing America's Schoolyards Act of 2026
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This legislation, introduced by Senator Heinrich (NM) in the Senate and Representative Lee (PA) in the House, would direct federal resources to a grant program for revitalization of schoolyards to "create park-like outdoor environments that strengthen local ecological systems, provide a range of hands-on learning resources, and foster nature play and social opportunities while enhancing the health and well-being of children and adults." Current status: Both bills are in committee awaiting hearings, markups, or floor votes.
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Environmental Education Alliance, Inc.
P.O. Box 801066 | Acworth, GA 30101 EEA does not does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in its program , activities, or employment. For more information on EEA's non-discrimination commitment click here . Grievance officer may be contacted at [email protected] |