Florida’s new social media ban for minors is among the toughest in the nation

On March 25, 2024, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law HB 3, implementing one of the nation’s strictest social media regulations for minors. The new legislation prohibits children under the age of 14 from having social media accounts, and mandates the termination of existing accounts for this age group. Teenagers aged 14 and 15 are allowed to maintain social media profiles, but only with parental consent. The law, which has garnered bipartisan support, is aimed at combating the negative effects of social media on children, including exposure to manipulative algorithms and potentially addictive features like infinite scrolling and likes. Critics, including Rep. Anna Eskamani and First Amendment groups, argue the law is an overreach that infringes on constitutional rights and parents’ ability to decide what is best for their children. Despite opposition and the threat of lawsuits from social media companies, Florida officials, including Attorney General Ashley Moody, are prepared to defend the legislation, highlighting concerns over child predation and the mental health impact of social media on young users.

Source: WFSU Public Media