In a recent session, the Florida House and Senate have approved a bill that seeks to impose a strict ban on minors under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, despite parental consent. The bill, which passed the House with a vote of 108-7 and the Senate with a vote of 23-14, is now awaiting approval from Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. The new legislation targets social media sites that enable children to upload content, interact with others, and utilize addictive features that can lead to excessive or compulsive use.

The bill's Senate sponsor, Republican Erin Grall, highlighted concerns over rising suicide rates, cyberbullying, and child predators using social media to harm children. Proponents of the bill argue that businesses are utilizing addictive features that manipulate children, causing harm to their well-being.

While similar legislation has been considered in other states, most have not proposed a complete ban on minors' social media use. The bill in Florida is structured to ban social media formats based on addictive features, rather than restricting content itself, in hopes that it will stand up to potential legal challenges.

Opponents of the bill argue that it infringes upon First Amendment rights and believe that monitoring children's social media use should remain within the realm of parental responsibility. Democratic state Sen. Jason Pizzo criticized the legislation, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in guiding children's online activities.

The bill, if passed, would require social media companies to close accounts believed to be used by minors and delete any associated information upon a minor's or parent's request. Governor DeSantis has expressed reservations about the legislation, acknowledging the potential harm of social media while emphasizing the role of parents in monitoring their children's online activities.

As the bill awaits Governor DeSantis's decision, both supporters and opponents continue to debate the balance between protecting minors online and safeguarding parental rights.