Judge Blocks Florida’s Teen Social Media Ban, Calls It a First Amendment Violation

A federal judge has temporarily blocked a key part of Florida’s 2024 law that would have restricted minors under 16 from accessing certain social media platforms. Chief U.S. District Judge Mark E. Walker ruled that the law likely violates First Amendment protections, putting enforcement on pause as legal challenges continue.

The law, known as HB 3, was originally set to take effect in January but was halted after major tech trade groups like NetChoice and the Computer & Communications Industry Association sued the state. These organizations represent platforms like Meta, YouTube, Google, and Snapchat.

Judge Walker’s ruling doesn’t block the entire law, just the portion banning teens under 16 from using specific social media platforms—even with parental consent. While he acknowledged concerns about the impact of social media on youth, he said the law overstepped constitutional boundaries by restricting access to lawful online content.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office says it disagrees with the judge’s decision and plans to appeal, arguing the law was designed to protect children from online harm.

This isn’t the first time Florida has clashed with Big Tech over content control. A 2021 law aimed at punishing platforms for banning political candidates is also tied up in court and could go to trial next year.