Florida to Ban Social Media Accounts for Children Under 14 Starting in 2025
FLORIDA – A new law set to take effect in Florida on January 1, 2025, will require social media platforms to delete the accounts of children under the age of 14, making Florida one of the most restrictive states in the nation regarding social media use for minors.
The law, known as House Bill 3, was signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in March. It mandates that social media platforms terminate accounts for children under 14, and for those aged 14 and 15, unless they have explicit parental permission to use the platforms. Social media companies that fail to comply with the law could face fines of up to $50,000 per violation.
The legislation applies to all social media platforms that meet certain criteria, including those that promote “infinite scrolling,” display reaction metrics like “likes” and “shares,” feature auto-play videos, and have live-streaming and push notifications. While the law does not single out specific platforms, it is expected to impact widely used services like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Proponents’ Viewpoint
Supporters of the law argue that it is a necessary step to protect children from the potential dangers of social media. Governor DeSantis and other proponents highlight the mental health risks, including depression, self-harm, and suicide, that social media exposure can exacerbate. They also point to the risks posed by online predators.
“Social media harms children in a variety of ways,” Governor DeSantis said in a statement after signing the bill. “HB 3 gives parents a greater ability to protect their children.”
Florida’s Republican House Speaker Paul Renner also praised the law, saying that the internet has become a “dark alley” for children. “Thanks to Governor DeSantis’ signature, Florida leads the way in protecting children online,” Renner said.
Critics’ Concerns
However, the law has faced significant criticism, particularly from civil rights groups and some political leaders who argue that it infringes upon First Amendment rights and parental authority.
Democratic Rep. Anna Eskamani expressed concern that the law oversteps by banning social media access rather than providing tools for parents to monitor and regulate their children’s online activity. “This bill goes too far in taking away parents’ rights and banning social media usage—and thus First Amendment rights—for young Floridians,” Eskamani said.
Kara Gross, legislative director of the ACLU of Florida, echoed these concerns, calling the law a “complete disregard for parental rights.” She argued that the government should not control what ideas and information parents can allow their children to access online.
Legal Challenges Expected
As the law’s implementation date approaches, legal challenges are anticipated. Opponents argue that it could be unconstitutional, citing the infringement on free speech and the rights of parents to make decisions for their children.
Despite these objections, Governor DeSantis has expressed confidence that the law will withstand legal scrutiny. “Any time I see a bill, if I don’t think it’s constitutional, I veto it,” he said, affirming his belief that the legislation is both constitutional and necessary.
As Florida prepares to enforce this new law, its implications for social media companies, parents, and minors remain a point of contention, with ongoing debates about how best to balance online safety and personal freedoms.
