Federal Court Allows Mississippi Social Media Age Verification Law

A federal appeals court ruled that Mississippi's age verification law for social media users can be enforced, overturning a previous injunction. The Walker Montgomery Protecting Children Online Act requires platforms to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent for those under 18, aiming to reduce harms such as sex trafficking, sexual abuse, and sextortion. Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch defended the law, citing its necessity following a tragic case involving a teenager on Instagram. The law, signed by Gov. Tate Reeves, has faced opposition from NetChoice, an industry group representing major tech companies like Meta and Snap, which argues the law infringes on privacy and free speech rights. NetChoice has vowed to continue legal challenges against this and similar laws in multiple states. Supporters emphasize the law's role in addressing growing concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health and safety.