Florida lawmakers filed bills on Wednesday that would add protections for minors on social media platforms against online predators.
Sen. Blaise Ingoglia filed SB 866 in the Senate while Rep. Michelle Salzman filed HB 743 in the House.
According to a release, both lawmakers seek to "disable end-to-end encryption and other data encryption features on social media accounts that restrict accessibility to messages relevant to a criminal investigation involving minors."
"This proposed change to law would be the first in the nation in stopping online predators from preying on children by using social media platforms. With advances in technology and end-to-end encryption becoming more widespread, we have unintentionally created a dark space for bad guys to roam freely," Ingoglia said.
"By banning end-to-end encryption ONLY for minors on social media platforms, it allows law enforcement to have the tools necessary to go after some of these scumbags who think it’s okay to groom young children," Ingoglia added.
Salzman added that protecting children online was not optional but a responsibility.
"This bill ensures that parents and law enforcement can intervene when necessary to keep minors safe from predators, cyberbullying, and dangerous content," Salzman said. "Big Tech should not be in the business of shielding harmful activity under the guise of privacy."
If passed, the law would take effect on July 1.
