Judge weighs whether to block Florida’s social media ban for minors

A federal judge is weighing whether to block a Florida law from going into effect that would ban social media accounts for some minors.

A federal judge is weighing whether to block a Florida law from going into effect that would ban social media accounts for children under 14 and require parental permission for 14- and 15-year-olds.

The measure was one of the most restrictive bans on kids’ social media use in the country when Gov. Ron DeSantis signed it into law in 2024. Industry groups representing communications companies argue it unconstitutionally limits free speech.

U.S. District Judge Mark Walker heard oral arguments Friday in the case brought by the trade groups Computer & Communications Industry Association and NetChoice, which are seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent parts of the law from being enforced while the legal challenge plays out.

Supporters of the law have said it's needed to help curb the explosive use of social media among young people, and what researchers say is an associated increase in depression and anxiety.

“We’re not opening a Pandora’s box, we’re closing one,” said Republican Rep. Tyler Sirois, who sponsored the bill. “The harm that it is causing our children is documented, and it is severe.”

At Friday's hearing in Tallahassee, Walker pressed Kevin Golembiewski, an attorney for the state, to explain how the law doesn't restrict users' rights to free expression. Walker, who was appointed by former President Barack Obama, has often skewered the DeSantis administration's proposals in characteristically colorful opinions.

“You've got a hard row to hoe,” Walker told the state's attorney, “to convince me this doesn't implicate speech.”