Florida's attorney general James Uthmeier filed a lawsuit against TikTok on Monday in St. Lucie County, claiming the platform breaches the state's child safety regulations. The Republican official alleges that TikTok knowingly permits children under 14 to establish accounts on its service and misrepresents how much violent and sexual material young users encounter.
The case, which seeks both an injunction requiring compliance and monetary damages, argues that TikTok prioritises commercial interests over protecting minors. Uthmeier said in a statement: "TikTok knowingly deceives parents and allows children to be exposed to harmful and inappropriate content in direct violation of Florida law. We have zero tolerance for companies that prioritize profit over children's safety."
TikTok responded by noting it has been cooperating with the state and informed Florida users aged under 14 that their accounts face suspension. The company, owned by ByteDance, stated it is updating its platform features to align with Florida requirements. A spokesperson added that TikTok maintains "a strong record on minor safety" and is evaluating the complaint.
This action is part of a broader enforcement wave. Florida law H.B. 3, which took effect in January 2025, prohibits social media platforms from allowing anyone under 14 to use their services and mandates parental permission for users under 16. A federal judge previously declared the law unconstitutional, though that ruling has been temporarily suspended while appeals proceed.
TikTok confronts legal pressure from over 25 state attorneys general alleging the platform's design promotes addiction among young users. The company has settled some cases before trial, including paying $8 million to a Kentucky school district. Meta Platforms and Google faced a jury verdict finding them negligent in a Los Angeles case brought by a young woman claiming depression and anxiety from platform addiction.
