Judge dismisses lawsuit against Florida's child social media law

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit challenging a Florida law that aims to limit children's access to major social media sites. The law, effective in 2024, seeks to prevent children under 16 from creating accounts on these platforms, although parents can consent for those aged 14 and 15. The judge ruled that two tech industry groups, the Computer & Communications Industry Association and NetChoice, did not show they had the legal right to challenge the law. Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker said the industry groups must provide more evidence to support their claims. He noted that the law specifically mentions criteria that platforms must meet to be affected, and the plaintiffs did not adequately link any particular company to those criteria. Examples of services likely impacted include Facebook, YouTube, and Snapchat, according to the plaintiffs. The law is seen as a major issue from the 2024 legislative session. Both industry groups argue it violates First Amendment rights. However, the judge's ruling focused on legal standing, not on constitutional rights. Walker also denied the groups’ request for a preliminary injunction to block the law from being enforced. Representatives from the industry groups expressed disappointment but plan to revise their lawsuit and file again. They argue that the law could restrict free speech online and endanger minors' online security. The law was initially set to take effect in January but enforcement was paused pending the court's decision.