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Florida’s new social media regulations for minors, which take effect on January 1, 2025, have sparked a debate among free speech and First Amendment advocates. Ten laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect on January 1st.
HB 3, championed by then House Speaker Paul Renner (R) of Palm Coast, seeks to prevent children under age 16 from having social media accounts. The bill isn’t clear on exactly which social media platforms are included but defines said platforms as those with “addictive features” and content viewing capabilities. However, it specifically mentions Facebook and YouTube, while excluding Disney+.
If violated, social media companies could face penalties of up to $50,000 per violation and open themselves up to lawsuits on behalf of the minors affected.
Public Opinion
Many online believe it is the parents’ right and responsibility to parent their own child, not the state’s. Here are some perspectives from social media and interviews: