What's happened
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill prohibiting children under 14 from using social media without parental consent. The law aims to protect minors from harmful content and potential dangers online, with fines imposed on social media companies for non-compliance.
Why it matters
The new law in Florida, banning children under 14 from social media without parental consent, is a significant step in safeguarding minors from potential online risks. It addresses concerns about harmful content and predatory behavior on social media platforms, highlighting the importance of parental supervision and child safety online.
What the papers say
The Mirror emphasizes the bill's focus on protecting children from harmful material, while Business Insider UK highlights concerns about potential legal challenges and privacy issues related to age verification methods. Ars Technica discusses the law's aim to protect children from online dangers but also mentions opposition from tech groups regarding privacy and First Amendment concerns.
How we got here
The legislation in Florida follows a growing trend in several states, including Georgia, to impose restrictions on children's social media use. Concerns about the negative impact of social media on children's mental health and safety have prompted lawmakers to introduce measures requiring parental consent for minors to access online platforms.
Common question
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Ronald "Ron" Dion DeSantis is an American attorney, naval officer, and Republican politician. He has served as the 46th governor of Florida since 2019, and he represented Florida's 6th congressional district in Congress from 2013 to 2018.
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