***PARENTAL ADVISORY WARNING*** Congressman Patronis Issues Parental Advisory on Social Media Blackout Challenges

March 23, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Patronis issued a Parental Advisory Warning to families across Northwest Florida about the dangerous and potentially deadly “Blackout Challenge” circulating on social media.

The challenge dares kids to stop breathing until they pass out. The trend has been linked to the deaths of at least 80 children nationwide, many of them under the age of 12.

“As a parent, I cannot ignore the very real danger this poses to our children,” said Congressman Patronis. "Too many families have already suffered unimaginable loss. These trends spread in seconds, and parents need to understand that social media isn’t just entertainment, it can expose kids to dangerous content that could cost them their lives.”

The challenge spreads through short videos, and Big Tech algorithms help push it to more young users, making it difficult for parents to notice before it becomes dangerous.

Parents are urged to:

Talk openly with their children about the dangers of viral challenges.
Monitor social media activity and online behavior.
Be alert for warning signs, including marks on the neck, severe headaches, or sudden changes in behavior.

Congressman Patronis is taking a stand against Big Tech’s harmful influence on children. H.R. 7045, the PROTECT Act, calls for the full repeal of Section 230 to hold social media companies accountable and protect kids online. Our children’s safety is more important than the profits of social media giants.

If you or someone you know has been harmed by Big Tech, contact the office of Congressman Jimmy Patronis by clicking here.

To view H.R. 7045, the PROTECT Act, click here.

###

***PARENTAL ADVISORY WARNING​​​*** Congressman Patronis Issues Parental Advisory on Social Media Blackout Challenges

PARENTAL ADVISORY WARNING Congressman Patronis Issues Parental Advisory on Social Media Blackout Challenges