Overview
- The measure would bar under‑15s from social networks and from social networking features embedded in other services, with online encyclopedias and educational platforms excluded.
- Lawmakers empowered regulators to decide which services are covered and to allow some lower‑risk platforms with parental consent, while private messaging apps are not included.
- Government leaders are using an accelerated procedure to target a September 2026 start for new accounts, with backers saying platforms would have until December 31 to deactivate existing underage accounts.
- Enforcement hinges on age‑verification systems that comply with EU rules, a task observers note is technically and legally difficult, citing Australia’s uneven rollout and teen workarounds.
- The bill also extends France’s school smartphone ban to high schools and comes with broad public support, though critics warn of rushed lawmaking and potential overreach in verification.