French Lawmakers Approve Social Media Age Restriction

Why it matters locally: While a foreign law, this legislative action in France could influence future efforts within the United States to regulate social media access for minors. Arkansas lawmakers and parent advocacy groups might observe such international precedents as discussions around online safety for children continue at federal and state levels.

French lawmakers have passed a bill establishing new regulations for social media use by minors. The legislation requires children under 15 years old to obtain parental consent before creating social media accounts. The National Assembly approved the measure, which intends to compel social media platforms to implement age verification technology. Companies must verify the user's age and seek permission from parents or legal guardians for those under the designated age limit. The bill's passage follows recent legal actions initiated by several French families. These families have filed lawsuits against TikTok, alleging that harmful content on the platform contributed to teen suicides.