Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed HB 3 into law, eliciting both support and controversy.
The legislation aims to mandate parental consent for kids under 16 to hold social media accounts.
Core provisions of the bill require social media platforms to prevent children under 14 from creating accounts.
Failure to adhere to these regulations could result in substantial penalties underscoring online safety for minors.
The requirement for commercial websites to verify users' ages has raised concerns about privacy rights.
However, the law provides an option for "anonymous age verification" to balance privacy concerns.
Opposition to the legislation has been voiced by the tech industry, citing concerns about excessive regulation.
Governor DeSantis's track record reflects a commitment to prioritizing parental rights and safeguarding children.
Similar measures have been enacted in Utah and Arkansas, signaling a growing recognition of the need for legislative intervention in this domain.
The Florida law is part of a broader trend among states to address the challenges posed by social media and its impact on youth.
The implementation of Florida's social media law on January 1st will prompt further debate and scrutiny.