Frank Russo Calls for Florida Crackdown on Addictive Social Media Features Targeting Children

Independent candidate for Governor says protecting children, parents and classrooms must come before Big Tech profits

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla., Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Non-party affiliated candidate for Florida Governor Frank Russo today announced that, if elected, he will support and sign legislation restricting addictive social media design features aimed at children under the age of 16.

The proposal comes as California moves forward with new protections limiting addictive features for young users - but Russo said Florida should not wait for another state or Washington to decide how to protect its children.

As a father, Russo said he understands the concerns parents have about what their children are exposed to online – from addictive algorithms designed to keep them scrolling to predatory content and pornography that can be only a few clicks away.

"This isn't about Republicans or Democrats. It's about our kids," Russo said. "Parents are doing everything they can to protect their children, but they are up against some of the largest technology companies in the world designing products to keep kids hooked. At some point, someone has to stand up for Florida families."

Russo also connected online safety directly to his experience listening to Florida educators. Teachers across the state have repeatedly raised concerns about the impact social media and constant phone use are having on student attention, behavior and learning.

"I've been listening to teachers, parents and families across Florida, and they are telling us the same thing – social media is affecting what happens inside our classrooms," Russo said. "If we are serious about improving education, we cannot ignore what is competing for our children's attention every minute of the day."

Russo said Florida should establish clear, enforceable standards for technology companies serving minors while giving parents stronger tools to protect their children.

"Big Tech has had plenty of time to police itself," Russo said. "Our children's safety, their mental well-being and their ability to learn have to come before another click, another view or another dollar in corporate profit. Florida can lead on this - and as Governor, I will."

The Russo campaign will release additional details of its proposed child online safety legislation
Russo • Rodriguez 2026
The People's Choice. The Caring Capitalists. Humanity Over the Dollar.

About Frank J. Russo:
Frank J. Russo is a lifelong Floridian, entrepreneur, insurance executive, real estate developer, and humanitarian with more than 40 years of business leadership, including over 30 years in the insurance industry. Based in New Smyrna Beach, Russo is running for Governor to restore affordability, strengthen Florida's economy, and build a government focused on practical solutions that put Floridians first. For more information, or to volunteer or donate, visit Russo2026.com.

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SOURCE Frank J. Russo for Governor