Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has enacted a law that places restrictions on children’s social media use, prohibiting those under 14 from accessing platforms without parental consent.
Additionally, individuals aged 14 or 15 must obtain parental authorization to join social media.
The law, known as HB3, mandates social media companies to delete accounts held by individuals under 14 or face legal action, potentially being sued for up to $10,000 per violation.
It is set to take effect in January 2025, amid growing efforts nationwide to regulate social media and concerns about children’s online safety.
However, the law is expected to face legal challenges, with critics arguing it infringes upon First Amendment rights.
Governor DeSantis and other supporters assert the law’s constitutionality and its focus on addressing the addictive nature of social media rather than regulating speech.