Starting January 1, 2025, several new laws will be implemented in Florida, impacting areas such as social media access, medical reimbursements, dental insurance transparency, construction permits, and voter registration. Among these, the HB-3 bill has stirred significant controversy as it bans children under 14 from creating social media accounts and mandates parental or legal guardian consent for teenagers aged 14 and 15.
The purpose of the HB3 legislation is to mitigate the risks associated with minors using digital platforms, such as cyberbullying, predator threats, and negative impacts on mental health. Tech companies are required to remove accounts of children under 14 and to establish age verification mechanisms, like facial recognition or official ID checks, to restrict access to adult content. Non-compliance may result in heavy fines.
In addition, the following laws will be enforced starting Wednesday:
Enhanced Control over Voter Registration - HB 135
From 2025, any voter wishing to change their political affiliation must do so in writing. This measure aims to ensure that such changes are voluntary and confirmed, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
Increase in Medical Reimbursements - SB 362
The maximum reimbursement amounts for doctors and surgical procedures are being raised to protect senior citizens and their financial well-being.
Preventing Financial Abuse of Seniors - SB 556
To safeguard seniors and other vulnerable individuals from financial abuse, financial institutions will have the authority to delay suspicious transactions and notify the appropriate authorities.
Streamlining Construction Permit Processes - HB 267
This regulation sets maximum timelines for local governments to respond to permit requests, eliminating delays that could hinder projects.
Dental Insurance Transparency - SB 892
Dental insurance regulations are being updated to enhance transparency in insurance company practices. Several practices that limited options for both dentists and patients are banned, promoting a more accessible and clear system.
Legal Protection for First Responders - SB 184
First responders will receive increased legal protection from threats, harassment, or interference in their duties. Violations of this law may result in a second-degree misdemeanor charge and imprisonment.
Modernization of Trust Laws - HB 1093
Florida's current Uniform Principal and Income Act (FUPIA) will be replaced to allow full-return investment under the "modern portfolio theory," facilitate the conversion of existing trusts into unitary ones, and provide more individualized estate planning flexibility.
Simplification of Bond Issuance - SB 7054
Legal reforms to streamline bond issuance have been enacted to expedite the financing of public interest projects, ensuring that funds for infrastructure or development initiatives can be raised more swiftly.
Controversy Surrounding Social Media Ban for Minors
The HB3 law has faced opposition from organizations like the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) and the NetChoice coalition, which have filed lawsuits claiming it is "unconstitutional" and infringes on the First Amendment by restricting minors' freedom of expression and online access to information.
The bill, which passed with broad bipartisan support in the Florida Senate (23 votes in favor and 14 against), addresses growing concerns over the impact of social media on teenagers. Proponents argue that these platforms contribute to rising suicide rates, self-harm, and cyberbullying cases among young people.
Understanding Florida's Upcoming Legislation Changes
What is the main purpose of the HB3 law?
The primary goal of the HB3 law is to address the risks that minors face on digital platforms, such as cyberbullying, predator threats, and mental health issues.
How will the SB 362 law benefit seniors?
SB 362 increases the maximum medical reimbursement amounts, offering greater financial protection to senior citizens.
What changes does HB 135 introduce to voter registration?
HB 135 requires voters to submit any political affiliation change requests in writing to ensure voluntary and confirmed changes, thus maintaining electoral integrity.
Why has the HB3 law been criticized?
Critics argue that the HB3 law is unconstitutional and violates the First Amendment by limiting minors' freedom of expression and online information access.