Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that imposes one of the most restrictive social media bans for minors in the country.
Driving the news: The new law, effective from January 1, will ban social media accounts for children under 14 and require parental permission for 14- and 15-year-olds. It was slightly modified from an earlier proposal that DeSantis vetoed before a legislative session.
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- Republican Speaker Paul Renner considers this bill crucial to protect children from addictive technologies, stating that kids lack the ability to understand the harm and step away from them.
- Previously, the bill DeSantis vetoed would have applied to minors under 16, but a compromise was reached with Renner to address the governor’s concerns.
- The bill is expected to face legal challenges, but supporters believe it will withstand them as it focuses on banning social media formats based on addictive features rather than their content.
- DeSantis acknowledged the potential First Amendment challenges but expressed confidence that the ban will be upheld, emphasizing his commitment to vetoing unconstitutional bills.
- The bill received overwhelming support in both chambers, with some Democrats joining Republicans. However, opponents argue that it infringes on parents’ rights and suggest focusing on improved parental oversight and access to data, alongside investments in mental health systems and programs.
