Social media can be both a blessing and a curse. While it offers a great way to connect with others, it also has its dangers. Constant comparison to others, hate speech, and inappropriate content are just a few examples. The accidents that have occurred as a result of social media are becoming increasingly discussed. Unsurprisingly, more countries are focusing on protecting children on the internet.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that imposes strict regulations on children's use of social media. Under the new law, kids under the age of 14 will not be allowed to create social media profiles, and any existing accounts they have will be deleted. Those between 14 and 15 will need to obtain written consent from their parents to create a social media account.

During a press conference, DeSantis stressed that the new legislation "gives parents a greater ability to protect their children." "Social media harms children in a variety of ways," he added.

Republican state house speaker Paul Renner voted in favour of the social media law.

"A child in their brain development doesn’t have the ability to know that they’re being sucked into these addictive technologies and to see the harm and step away from it, and because of that, we have to step in for them," Renner said at a ceremony for the bill signing held at a Jacksonville school.

Tech giants may challenge the new legislation in court. Similar situations have occurred in Arkansas and Ohio, where the court ruled in favour of the technology industry and banned the law. However, if the judge upholds Ron DeSantis' decision this time, the new legislation will come into effect on 1 January 2025.

Source: The Guardian