Florida Gov. DeSantis signs bill restricting social media for kids

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Monday that sets age limits for social media use in the state. Under the new law, children under 14 are prohibited from creating social media accounts, and those aged 14 and 15 will need parental consent to join platforms.

“Ultimately, [we’re] trying to help parents navigate this very difficult terrain that we have now with raising kids, and so I appreciate the work that’s been put in,” DeSantis said.

The law requires social media companies to delete accounts belonging to users under 14. If they fail to comply, they can be sued, and children may receive up to $10,000 in damages.

Companies could also face fines of $50,000 for each violation.

According to the law, individuals have a 90-day window to challenge the termination of their accounts if they have been incorrectly identified. Additionally, the bill stipulates that parents in the state can request the termination of their children’s accounts, which must be processed within 10 business days.

“You can have a kid in the house, safe, seemingly, and then you have predators that can get right in there into your own home. You can do everything right and they know how to manipulate these platforms,” DeSantis said.

The bill, expected to face legal challenges, is set to take effect in 2025.