Florida lawmakers are considering new laws that aim to keep children away from sexually explicit websites and harmful social media posts, joining a movement gaining momentum in state capitals across the country.
One proposal (HB 1) would restrict access to social media platforms for anyone under age 16. Another measure (HB 3) would require pornography websites to verify that visitors are 18 years or older.
Other states have passed similar bills in recent years. Those new laws are being litigated.
Florida House Speaker Paul Renner said he wants to combat digital addiction that he thinks have created mental health issues, bullying and other problems for youths.
“We have to regulate social media in a meaningful way because our kids’ lives depend on it,” he said last month during an appearance at the Capital Tiger Bay Club in Tallahassee.