US court blocks landmark law limiting social media use for children

A U.S. federal court blocked a landmark state law restricting children’s social media access, ruling it unconstitutional in February 2026. The decision halts enforcement pending further legal challenges. The law required age verification and parental consent for minors under 16, citing mental health concerns. Critics argued it violated free speech rights and imposed excessive burdens on platforms. Tech industry groups, including NetChoice, sued, claiming the law stifled innovation and overreached state authority. The court sided with plaintiffs, calling the restrictions "overbroad." Supporters, including child safety advocates, condemned the ruling, warning of unchecked online harms. They vowed to appeal, framing it as a public health crisis. The case intensifies debates over digital rights, parental controls, and government regulation of tech platforms. Similar laws in other states now face uncertainty.