French lawmakers to vote on social media ban for under-15s

PARIS, Jan 26 (KUNA) -- French MPs are expected on Monday to vote in favor of a new law that would block social media for under-15s and ban mobile phones in high schools in a bit to better protect children's health.
If passed, the new law would likely come into effect from the new school year in September.
The draft legislation to ban social media for under-15s, an effort championed by President Emmanuel Macron to protect children from excessive screen time.
The legislation, which also provides for a ban on mobile phones in high schools, follows Australia banning social media for under-16s in December, a world first.
As social media has grown around the world, so has concern that too much screen time is arresting child development and contributing to declining mental health in minors.
"The emotions of our children and teenagers are not for sale or to be manipulated, either by American platforms or Chinese algorithms," Macron said in a video broadcast on Saturday.
The French bill proposed by centrist lawmakers will be examined from 4:00pm (1500 GMT) and, barring any surprises, is expected to be given the green light by the lower house, the National Assembly. The legislation would then go to the Senate upper house.
Authorities want to move quickly, with measures to be enforced from the start of the 2026 school year for new accounts. (end) mb.aa