Florida's social media law has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge'The challenged law is likely unconstitutional,' the court ruled.

Federal Judge Blocks Florida Social Media Law

On Tue, Jun 10, 2025, a federal judge temporarily blocked Florida's law, HB3, which restricts social media usage among minors. This decision came after two technology organizations, NetChoice and CCIA, contested the law, arguing it was likely unconstitutional. The law required parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds to create or use accounts on social media platforms, while completely banning children under 14 from such platforms.

The legislation mandated social media platforms to delete accounts upon request within five business days, with penalties for non-compliance set at $10,000 per violation. This fine could escalate to $50,000 per instance if it was determined that the violation was knowing or reckless.

Judge Mark Walker noted that the law's broad application infringes on free speech, potentially banning all minors under 14 from accessing platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. The requirement for parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds was also challenged as contrary to First Amendment protections.

Despite the blockage of several parts of the law, social media companies must still comply with requests to terminate accounts for users under 16, upon parental or guardian request, as stipulated in the bill.

Based on reporting by www.engadget.com.