Florida bans under-14s from social media, even if parents consent

RON DESANTIS, the Florida governor, has signed a new law that bans children younger than 14 from using social media in his state.

It also prohibits 14- or 15-year-olds from accessing online platforms without the consent of a parent. Under the new law, which takes effect in January 2025, social media companies must delete the accounts of any Florida children aged under 14.

If they fail to do so, the companies could be sued for up to $10,000 (£7,900) in damages by the parents or guardians of the child who created the account. Other violations of the law would leave social media platforms facing fines of up to $50,000, as well as legal costs.

“We’re trying to help parents navigate this very difficult terrain,” Mr Desantis said during a signing ceremony for the HB3 [House Bill 3].

Proponents said the law was a necessary response to concerns from some parents that social media platforms are not doing enough to keep their children safe online.

States such as Ohio and Arkansas have enacted similar laws to limit young people’s access to social media.

Paul Renner, the Florida House Speaker, and fellow supporters of the bill argue that social media use can damage children’s mental health and expose them to online sexual predators.

“None of us can afford to be on the sidelines when it comes to social media,” said Mr Renner. “What we have addressed is the addictive features at the heart of why children stay on these platforms for hours and hours on end.”

The bill is expected to be challenged by Netchoice LLC, a coalition of social media platforms whose members include Meta, Google and X. The group has said such limits violate the First Amendment of the Constitution.

“There are better ways to keep Floridians, their families and their data safe and secure online without violating their freedoms,” Carl Szabo, general counsel for Netchoice, said.