Florida Passes Law Restricting Teen Social Media Access

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law restricting social media access for minors under 16 on Monday, as the effects of the platforms on teens generate increasing concerns in the United States.

Those 13 years old and younger will not be able to open a social media account in the state, and 14- and 15-year-olds will need to seek parental consent to use such platforms.

Despite worries about social media, the law has also raised free speech concerns and comes at a time when right-wing state governments have pushed controversial “parental rights” legislation, notably affecting education.

Lawmakers, DeSantis said, “we are trying to help parents navigate this very difficult terrain that we have now with raising kids.”

Speaker of the Florida House Paul Renner said that social media is characterized with risks from traffickers and paedophiles, and that “social media platforms have caused a devastating effect on the mental well-being of our children.”

Most platforms require users to be 13 or older, they however do little in terms of enforcement.