Bill > S03591

This bill requires websites that publish sexual material harmful to minors to implement robust age verification methods to prevent underage access. Specifically, commercial entities publishing such content must verify the age and location of users attempting to access their websites, ensuring that users are both 18 years or older and located within New York State. The bill defines "sexual material harmful to minors" as content that is sexually explicit, appealing to prurient interests, and lacks serious artistic or scientific value. Websites must use verification methods such as digital identification, credit card transactions, government-issued ID checks, or verified password-protected accounts that require monthly re-verification. Websites that fail to comply can be penalized up to $50,000 per day by the Attorney General. The bill provides exemptions for news organizations and clarifies that internet service providers, search engines, and cloud service providers are not liable for content they do not create. The law will take effect 90 days after being signed, and it aims to protect minors from accessing sexually explicit online content by implementing stringent age verification requirements.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3591