Federal Judge Halts Virginia's Social Media Law for Children

A federal judge has blocked Virginia from enforcing a new law designed to protect children from social media addiction. The law, which took effect January 1, 2026, required age verification and limited use for those under 16 to one hour daily.

U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles issued a preliminary injunction, stating the law likely infringes on the free speech rights of adults, children, and technology companies. The trade group NetChoice, representing firms like Meta, Google, and X, challenged the law.

Virginia argued the law was necessary to address youth mental health and social media's "addictive features." However, the judge found it overinclusive by requiring age verification for all and underinclusive by exempting certain gaming platforms.

"The court recognizes the Commonwealth’s compelling interest in protecting its youth... However, it cannot infringe on First Amendment rights," Judge Giles wrote.

Virginia's Attorney General's office stated they look forward to continuing to enforce laws empowering parents. NetChoice welcomed the ruling, emphasizing that access to lawful speech cannot be rationed by the government.