Buckeye Reporter

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has expressed his disappointment following a federal judge's temporary blockage of the Social Media Parental Notification Act. In a press release, DeWine emphasized the law's importance in enabling parents to be actively involved in their children's online experiences.

"I supported the Social Media Parental Notification Act because parents should have a role in their children’s social media use," said Governor DeWine. He further added, "The negative effects that social media sites and apps have on our children’s mental health have been well documented, and this law was one way to empower parents to have a role in their kids’ digital lives." Expressing his dissatisfaction with the court's decision, DeWine stated, "I am disappointed in this injunction and hope it will be lifted as the case further proceeds so these important protections for children can take effect."

According to the governor's press release, enforcement of The Social Media Parental Notification Act, which was set for January 15, has been temporarily halted by a U.S. District Judge in Ohio's Southern District, Eastern Division. This action follows tech lobbying group NetChoice's request for a preliminary injunction. Representing major social media corporations such as Meta, NetChoice seeks to suspend the act's implementation while legal proceedings continue.

The press release outlines that The Social Media Parental Notification Act imposes stringent measures on platforms accessed by minors. These measures compel companies to verify user age, obtain parental consent and notify parents of their child's activities. While e-commerce and media outlets are exempted from these requirements, non-compliance results in denial of access. Additionally, a specific procedure is available for parents to address concerns through the Ohio Attorney General's Office if necessary.

Lt. Governor Husted also expressed his disappointment according to the same press release. He stated that "The big-tech companies behind this lawsuit were included in the legislative process to make sure the law was clear and easy to implement, but now they claim the law is unclear. They were disingenuous participants in the process and have no interest in protecting children."

The press release also revealed that the act, championed by Lt. Governor Husted, endorsed by the General Assembly, and signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine as part of the 2023-24 executive budget, was initially set to take effect on January 15, 2024.