A federal judge is considering whether to block a Florida law that bans children under 14 from having social media accounts and requires parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds.
Signed into law in 2024 by Governor Ron DeSantis, the measure is among the strictest in the country regarding minors’ social media use. Industry groups representing tech companies argue it infringes on free speech right, reports AP.
U.S. District Judge Mark Walker heard arguments Friday from the Computer & Communications Industry Association and NetChoice, trade groups seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent the law’s enforcement while legal proceedings continue.
Supporters claim the law is necessary to address the rising use of social media among minors, which researchers link to increased depression and anxiety.
“We’re not opening a Pandora’s box, we’re closing one,” said Republican Rep. Tyler Sirois, the bill’s sponsor. “The harm social media is causing our children is well-documented and severe.”
During the Tallahassee hearing, Walker questioned state attorney Kevin Golembiewski on how the law does not infringe on free speech. Walker, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, has previously been critical of DeSantis administration policies.
“You’ve got a tough case to make,” Walker told Golembiewski. “Convincing me this doesn’t involve speech is an uphill battle.”
State officials argue the law targets addictive social media features—such as notification alerts and auto-play videos—rather than content itself.
“The goal is to curb compulsive use,” Golembiewski said. “It does not regulate content, and children can still use apps if companies eliminate the addictive features outlined in the law.”
However, attorney Erin Murphy, representing CCIA and NetChoice—whose members include Google, Meta, X, and YouTube—criticized the law, calling it “draconian.” She argued that features like infinite scrolling are inseparable from the content they display.
“They are restricting access to expressive activity,” Murphy said. “That clearly raises First Amendment concerns.”
Stephanie Joyce, director of CCIA’s Litigation Center, echoed these concerns, stating that the law creates significant obstacles to accessing online information.
“This ‘internet rationing’ law blocks access to lawful content and represents yet another attempt by the state to regulate free speech,” Joyce said in a statement.
The law, originally set to take effect on Jan. 1, has not yet been enforced due to the ongoing lawsuit.
Walker stated he would carefully review the arguments before issuing a ruling.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
