As concerns over social media’s impact on youth in the US grow, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Monday limiting minors under 16’s access to the sites
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 parental consent to use such platforms.
The rule has sparked concerns about free speech in addition to social media, and it comes at a time when right-wing state administrations are pushing contentious “parental rights” legislation that has a significant impact on education.
According to DeSantis, lawmakers were attempting to assist parents in navigating the challenging landscape of raising children at this time.
Speaker of the Florida House Paul Renner said that social media is fraught with risks from traffickers and pedophiles, and that “social media platforms have caused a devastating effect in the mental well being of our children.”
The majority of platforms have an age requirement of 13 or above.
Concerns regarding social media’s impact on young people’s learning and development have grown throughout the nation.
However, some worry that the bill may set a precedent for limiting free speech online. This has also raised worries about the law.
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