Federal judge blocks enforcement of law requiring parental consent for children under 16 to start using SNS



Enforcement of a law requiring social media companies to send a notice to parents seeking consent when accepting children under the age of 16 has been blocked in Ohio. Opponents of the new law have welcomed the decision, saying they believe it is unconstitutional.

NetChoice Halts Ohio Law: 4th Ruling Stopping Laws That Fail Kids, Parents & Constitution - NetChoice

https://netchoice.org/netchoice-halts-ohio-law-4th-ruling-stopping-laws-that-fail-kids-parents-constitution/



US judge blocks Ohio law restricting children's use of social media | Reuters

https://www.reuters.com/legal/us-judge-blocks-ohio-law-restricting-childrens-use-social-media-2024-02-12/

Ohio's social media parental consent law blocked by judge
https://www.nbc4i.com/news/politics/ohios-social-media-parental-consent-law-blocked-by-judge-as-likely-unconstitutional/

Based on research findings that SNS has a significant impact on the mental health of children under the age of 16, some American lawmakers are pushing for legislation to restrict children's use of SNS. On the other hand, industry groups that technology companies are members of have launched opposition campaigns, arguing that ``children's privacy is not protected'' and ``it violates the constitution,'' and some have even gone so far as to file lawsuits. Similar laws had already been enacted in states such as Louisiana , but a federal judge blocked them in Ohio.

'Blocking all access without parental consent is woefully ineffective at mitigating harm to children,' said Ohio federal judge Algernon Marbury.

Judge Mabry had previously issued a temporary stay on the legislation due to a lawsuit filed by industry group NetChoice, but now he has decided to suspend the legislation indefinitely while the lawsuit continues.



In response to the decision, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted, who were pushing for the law's implementation, said, ``There is overwhelming evidence that social media has a negative impact on the mental health of minors.'' Despite this, we are

disappointed that this ruling has been made.' We are emphasizing that we will continue to strengthen our efforts in the future.

'The district court's thoughtful opinion upholds the First Amendment (protecting freedom of religion, speech, and press) and children's rights to free speech and privacy,' said Chris Marchese, NetChoice's legal director. We appreciate the decision to prevent infringement.' He indicated that he will continue to fight the legal battle in Ohio, as he has won cases over similar laws in California and Arkansas.



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