22 June 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : A U.S. appeals court has ruled that the state of Ohio can enforce a law requiring parental consent before children under the age of 16 are allowed to use social media platforms, marking a significant legal victory for state efforts to regulate minors’ online activity.
The decision overturns an earlier court ruling that had blocked the law and allows Ohio to move forward with implementing the restrictions while legal challenges continue.
What The Law Requires
The Ohio law, known as the Social Media Parental Notification Act, requires social media companies and certain gaming applications to obtain verifiable parental consent before allowing users under 16 to create accounts. It also requires companies to provide information about their privacy and content moderation policies.
Appeals Court Reverses Earlier Block
A divided three-judge panel of the Sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the law does not violate protections under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The court found that the parental-consent requirement imposed only a limited burden and was aimed at addressing concerns about children’s exposure to potentially harmful online platforms.
Tech Industry Challenge Rejected
The lawsuit was brought by NetChoice, a trade group representing major technology companies including Meta Platforms, TikTok and YouTube. The organization argued that the law was overly broad and infringed on free speech rights. However, the appeals court disagreed and restored the law.
State Officials Welcome Decision
Ohio officials praised the ruling, saying it gives parents greater control over their children’s online activity and helps protect young users from harmful content and potentially addictive digital platforms.
Part Of A Broader Trend
The Ohio decision comes as governments around the world are considering stricter rules for children’s access to social media amid growing concerns about mental health, online safety and excessive screen time. Several countries and U.S. states have introduced or proposed similar measures.
Legal Battle Likely To Continue
NetChoice has indicated it intends to continue challenging the law, arguing that the ruling conflicts with decisions in other states where similar restrictions have been blocked. The case is expected to remain part of the broader national debate over children’s online safety and digital rights.
Key Takeaway
A federal appeals court has allowed Ohio to enforce a law requiring parental consent for social media use by children under 16. Supporters view the measure as a tool to protect young users online, while critics argue it raises concerns about free speech and privacy rights.