Federal judge: A social media ban for kids under 14 is unconstitutional

A federal judge blocked Florida officials from enforcing a law that would bar social media for kids under the age of 14.

In the ruling , U.S. District Judge Mark Walker wrote that "Florida’s challenged law is likely unconstitutional" but added the court "does not doubt that parents and legislators in the state have sincere concerns about the effects that social media use may have on youth."

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill in March of 2024 that would bar kids under 14 years old from social media and require parental permission for those who are 14 or 15. Facebook , Instagram , and Snapchat already require users to be at least 13 years old, while TikTok has a curated, watch-only version for kids under 13. It's worth noting these restrictions are in-line with