A federal judge blocked a Florida law limiting social media access for children under 14, deeming it likely unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker acknowledged the legitimate concerns regarding youth and social media but emphasized the law's infringement on freedom of speech. Signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2024, the law aimed to protect minors from social media's potential harms but faced opposition from the internet trade group NetChoice. Florida officials plan to appeal the ruling, indicating ongoing legal battles surrounding this contentious issue.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier defended the state law and said the state intended to appeal the decision. 'We disagree with the court's order and will immediately seek relief in the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.'
In the judge's order granting the preliminary injunction, he wrote the law 'directly burdens those youths' rights to engage in and access speech.'
Florida's challenged law is likely unconstitutional,' but 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.
These platforms do not have a constitutional right to addict kids to their products,' Uthmeier's press secretary Jae Williams said in a statement.
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