Bill > SB603

This bill amends Pennsylvania's criminal code to create new regulations for internet websites with substantial amounts of content deemed harmful to minors. The legislation requires commercial entities with websites containing over 33.3% material harmful to minors to implement reasonable age verification methods to prevent minors from accessing such content. "Material harmful to minors" is comprehensively defined as sexually explicit or sexually suggestive content that lacks serious artistic, literary, or scientific value when viewed through contemporary community standards. Websites must use third-party verification services or other commercially reasonable methods to check users' ages, and they are prohibited from retaining users' identifying information after access is granted. If a commercial entity fails to implement proper age verification and a minor accesses harmful content, the entity can be held liable for damages, including court costs and attorney fees. The bill includes exceptions for news organizations and internet service providers, ensuring they are not held responsible for content they do not directly create. The new regulations will take effect 90 days after the bill's enactment, giving websites time to implement the required age verification systems.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=603