Could This Be the Start of World-Wide Social Media Bans?
The law in Australia does reflect a wider movement globally. A new law will come into effect in Florida on January 1, which bans social media accounts for children under-14; but also stipulates children aged 15 and 16 must have parental consent to engage.
Signed into law by governor Ron DeSantis, it also comes with heavy fines. Sky News reports that “Companies who fail to delete accounts risk being sued on behalf of children – with the minor awarded up to $10,000 (£7,908) – and could also be fined up to $50,000 (£39,538) per violation of the law.” It is expected to be challenged, not least by the social media companies.
However, it also has some political opposition. “This bill goes too far in taking away parents’ rights,” the Democratic state house representative Anna Eskamani said in a news release. “Instead of banning social media access, it would be better to ensure improved parental oversight tools, improved access to data to stop bad actors, alongside major investments in Florida’s mental health systems and programs.”
Beyond the States, BBC News reports that Norway is considering a ban and France already has legislation in place; but social media access for children under-15 is possible with parental consent.
