Courts to Lawmakers: Kids Have First Amendment Rights Too!
When it comes to social media laws, states are trying to be the strict parents with curfews. But courts and the EFF keep saying, “Not so fast.” These laws struggle to pass the constitutional vibe check, as they infringe on First Amendment rights. Turns out, there’s no “kid exception” to free speech.
Hot Take:
Ah, lawmakers – always trying to protect us from ourselves. Apparently, the best way to keep kids safe online is to make social media a no-kid zone, or at least make them get a permission slip from mom and dad. But don’t worry, the courts and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) are here to remind us that the First Amendment doesn’t have a “no minors allowed” sign at the door. Welcome to the digital age, where even your grandma has a TikTok account!
Key Points:
- Lawmakers in multiple states are attempting to pass laws restricting minors’ access to social media.
- Courts, alongside the EFF, argue these laws violate First Amendment rights.
- The laws often require social media platforms to verify user ages, posing privacy risks.
- EFF and partners have filed briefs challenging these laws in several states.
- The Supreme Court consistently protects minors’ speech rights, with no exceptions.