Sodeinde QuadriFlorida State Governor, Ron DeSantis, made a significant move on Monday by signing into law a bill that imposes strict regulations on children’s access to social media platforms in the state, as reported by NBC News.
Under this new legislation, children under the age of 14 are prohibited from creating or maintaining social media accounts within the state. Additionally, individuals aged 14 or 15 will require parental consent before they are allowed to join any social media platform.
Dubbed HB3, the bill also mandates social media companies to delete existing accounts belonging to individuals under the age of 14. Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to legal repercussions for the companies. They could face lawsuits on behalf of the underage account holders, with potential damages of up to $10,000 per violation. Furthermore, companies found in violation of the law may be subject to fines of up to $50,000 per violation, along with additional legal fees.
During the bill-signing ceremony, Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of supporting parents in navigating the complexities of raising children in the digital age. He expressed appreciation for the efforts invested in crafting the legislation.
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This bill represents a compromise as Governor DeSantis had previously vetoed a more stringent version that proposed banning social media accounts for individuals under 16 and required submission of identification documents to join social media platforms.
HB3 is scheduled to come into effect in January 2025, aligning with the ongoing nationwide efforts to regulate social media platforms, particularly concerning child safety online.
The legislative move in Florida echoes concerns raised by parents nationwide regarding the adequacy of social media platforms’ measures to safeguard children online. Efforts such as the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) aim to establish accountability for platforms recommending content that may negatively impact minors’ mental health.
Nevertheless, the law is expected to face legal challenges, including claims of violating the First Amendment. NetChoice LLC, representing various social media platforms, has expressed disappointment, labeling the law as unconstitutional. However, Governor DeSantis and other proponents assert that the legislation is constitutionally sound and essential for addressing the addictive nature of social media platforms among children.
Despite anticipated legal battles, supporters remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding children’s well-being in the digital realm, emphasizing the necessity of balancing freedom of speech with protective measures against potential harms associated with social media use among minors.
