Florida’s social media law for teens heads to appeals court.
The Florida teen social law now faces review in a federal appeals court. Judges will decide whether the restrictions on youth social media use should remain blocked.
A three-judge panel from the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit will hear arguments on March 10 in Jacksonville.
Earlier, a federal judge in Tallahassee stopped enforcement of the rule. The decision came after tech industry groups challenged the law in court.
The rule, signed by Ron DeSantis in 2024, targets teenage access to social media platforms. It blocks users under 16 from creating accounts on certain services.
However, the law allows 14- and 15-year-olds to join platforms with parental permission. Supporters say the policy protects children from online risks.
Tech Groups Raise Free Speech Concerns
Critics argue the Florida teen social law could limit access to protected online content. They say the measure may violate the First Amendment.
Organizations representing companies such as Google, Meta, and Snap filed the lawsuit soon after the bill became law. The Computer & Communications Industry Association leads the legal challenge. Its president, Matt Schruers, said protecting young people online is important.
However, he believes families should decide how teenagers use social media. Therefore, the group argues that government limits could restrict lawful speech.
The case also covers another rule in the law. Websites that publish adult content must verify that visitors are at least 18 years old. The appeals court ruling could shape how states regulate youth internet access in the future.
