Florida may ban social media for children

Florida lawmakers have passed one of the largest bans on social media for children under the age of 16, but it is not yet known whether the bill will come into force.

Here's What We Know

The law was sent to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who expressed concern about it, as it restricts freedom to a certain extent. In addition, the ban will apply regardless of parental approval.

Citing concerns about children's mental health, House lawmakers voted 108 to 7 in favour of finalising the bill.

It is noted that the ban will apply to any social media that tracks user activity, allows children to download materials and interact with others, and uses addictive features.

Lawmakers believe that this ban is necessary because of the rising rates of child suicide, cyberbullying, and child surveillance.

Other states have also considered similar bills, but most have not proposed a complete ban. For example, in Arkansas, a federal judge blocked a law because it required parental consent to create new social media accounts.

Source: ABC