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DeSantis Vetoes Social Media Ban for Minors, Proposes Less Restrictive Alternative

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed a bill banning social media use for minors under 16, favoring a new proposal that allows parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis attends the drivers meeting prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, in Daytona Beach, Fla., on Feb. 19, 2024.
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Overview

  • Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a proposed Florida law that would have banned social media use for youth under 16, citing concerns over parental rights.
  • The vetoed bill would have required social media providers to use third-party age verification to ensure compliance.
  • DeSantis supports a less-restrictive alternative bill, allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to have social media accounts with parental permission.
  • The alternative bill aims to protect children from social media harms while upholding parents' rights and adult anonymous speech.
  • Several states have considered similar legislation, but Florida's new proposal hopes to withstand legal challenges with its focus on addictive features rather than content.