Can Florida’s Social-Media Ban for Minors Work?

Newly signed legislation in Florida prohibits people under 14 years of age from having social-media accounts, regardless of parental consent. It is due to go into effect Jan. 1. 

Here is a look at the law, including whether it is likely to withstand court challenges, why verifying users’ ages is tricky and how minors are currently protected online.

What does the new law require?

The law requires social-media companies to close accounts believed to be used by minors under that age, cancel accounts of minors 14 or 15 years old at the...