Finally, Governor Ron DeSantis gave his approval to the regulations that seek to limit minors’ access to the platforms.
One of the main debates that was taking place in USA around the social networks and it is a fact: Florida passed a law that It will prohibit its use among minors under 14 years of age. The regulations generated a lot of controversy in the State led by Ron DeSantis who finally signed and approved the initiative that had already been approved by Congress earlier this month.
The law will come into operation on January 1, 2025 and, in addition to prohibiting social networks for those under 14, will restrict access to young people aged 14 and 15, who will need parental consent to use the platforms.
“We’re trying to help parents navigate this difficult terrain that we have now with parenting“, said DeSantis when signing the new law.
After a long dispute, Florida restricted the use of social networks for minors
The president of the Florida House, Paul Rennerthe main driver of the project, celebrated its approval and assured that “on these platforms More crimes against children occur than anywhere else“he declared. “We also know that social networks have had a devastating effect on the mental well-being of our children“he added.
Most of these platforms require a minimum age of 13 years to open an accountalthough they do little to ensure that this provision is enforced.
Some critics of the law pointed out that Parents should be the ones to supervise the use of social networks for the minors. Furthermore, they warned that the text could violate the First Amendment of the Constitution American, which guarantees freedom of expression.
However, Renner argued that the law does not address the content but rather the addictive features of social networks, such as infinite scrolling or likes and hearts that give that little hit of drugs to your brain that makes you want to stay connected longer and longer. “.
Despite his previous rejection, DeSantis approved the restriction of social networks for minors
DeSantis had rejected a previous bill that would prohibit anyone under 16 from using these platforms, arguing that the text ignored the will of the parents.
The governor reiterated on several occasions that Parents should have greater control over decisions that affect their childrenfor example in teaching.
During his tenure, Florida passed laws to restrict the teaching of issues related to sexual orientation and the gender identity.
Source: Ambito
