Federal judge reviews Florida’s social media ban for minors, which restricts children under 14 from using social platforms. Industry groups argue it violates free speech rights.
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| Judge Mark Walker reviews Florida's proposed social media restrictions for minors in court, addressing First Amendment concerns raised by tech industry groups. Image: ChicHue |
Tallahassee, FL, USA – March 1, 2025:
A federal judge is considering whether to block Florida’s restrictive social media law for minors, which prohibits children under 14 from using social platforms and mandates parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds. The law, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2024, is currently at the center of a legal challenge by tech industry groups, including the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) and NetChoice. These organizations argue that the law infringes on First Amendment rights by restricting access to social media and online speech.
During a hearing on Friday, U.S. District Judge Mark Walker heard arguments from both sides, with the tech groups seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent the law from being enforced while the case progresses. Judge Walker, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, questioned the state’s legal reasoning, expressing doubts about how the law’s restrictions could avoid regulating content itself.
The law’s proponents, including Republican Rep. Tyler Sirois, argue that it is necessary to protect children from the negative effects of social media, which research links to increased depression and anxiety. "The harm social media is causing our children is well-documented and severe," Sirois stated. The law is seen by its supporters as a critical step to address the rising concern over social media’s impact on young people.
However, state attorney Kevin Golembiewski defended the law, emphasizing that it targets the addictive features of social media—such as auto-play videos and notification alerts—not the content being shared. "The goal is to curb compulsive use, not to regulate speech," Golembiewski said.
On the opposing side, Erin Murphy, representing the tech groups, criticized the law as "draconian" and warned that it would lead to unnecessary restrictions on free speech. Murphy argued that features like infinite scrolling are intrinsically tied to the content they display and that limiting these features would hinder access to information, raising serious constitutional concerns.
While the law was originally set to take effect on January 1, enforcement has been delayed due to the ongoing legal challenge. Judge Walker indicated that he would take time to carefully review the arguments before issuing a decision. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future state-level regulations on social media use among minors in the United States.