Judge Temporarily Puts Brakes on Utah Social Media Law

A judge has blocked a Utah law intended to limit children’s exposure to social media.

At a Glance

A federal judge in Utah has temporarily blocked a social media access law aimed at protecting children’s privacy and limiting their use of social media platforms, deeming it unconstitutional.
U.S. District Court Judge Robert Shelby issued a preliminary injunction against the law, citing First Amendment concerns.
The law requires social media companies to verify users’ ages, apply privacy settings, and limit certain features on minor accounts.
The injunction follows legal challenges from NetChoice, a nonprofit trade association for internet companies.

Court Blocking of Utah’s Social Media Law

A federal judge in Utah has temporarily blocked a social media access law intended to protect children’s privacy and restrict their use of social media platforms. U.S. District Court Judge Robert Shelby issued a preliminary injunction against the law, citing concerns it violates the First Amendment.

The blocked law requires social media companies to verify the ages of users, apply privacy settings, and limit features like direct messaging and data collection on minor accounts. This law, known as the Utah Minor Protection in Social Media Act, aimed to replace previous laws from 2023 that were similarly challenged on constitutional grounds. The preliminary ruling prevents the law from taking effect on October 1, pending the outcome of a case filed by NetChoice.

Federal judge temporarily blocks Utah social media laws aimed to protect children https://t.co/07frOJGy3b

— The Associated Press (@AP) September 11, 2024

Legal and Social Concerns

Judge Shelby acknowledged the state’s intent to shield young people from the negative effects of social media but indicated the state did not present a compelling reason for overriding First Amendment rights. Despite agreeing with the law’s objectives, the court found that the state’s approach lacked sufficient constitutional justification. NetChoice argues that this law would require Utah residents to provide more information than usual, increasing the risk of data breaches.

Republican Gov. Spencer Cox expressed disappointment in the court’s decision, emphasizing the gravity of the battle against the detrimental effects of social media on children. “Let’s be clear: social media companies could voluntarily, at this very moment, do everything that the law put in place to protect our children. But they refuse to do so. Instead, they continue to prioritize their profits over our children’s wellbeing. This must stop, and Utah will continue to lead the fight.”

Future Implications and Challenges

The legislation faced significant backlash from social media companies and advocacy groups alleging infringements on free speech and privacy rights. The court’s decision underscores the complexities of regulating digital spaces, particularly when minors are involved. Chris Marchese, director of litigation for NetChoice, stated, “With this now sixth injunction against these overreaching laws, we hope policymakers will focus on meaningful and constitutional solutions for the digital age.”

The block on the law will remain in effect as lawsuits between NetChoice and the state of Utah are resolved. As social media platforms continue to evolve, it remains to be seen how states will balance the protection of minors with constitutional freedoms. Rep. Jordan Teuscher, a sponsor of the bill, expressed his disappointment but remained confident that the law would eventually be found constitutional.