Bill > HB1513

This bill aims to establish legal liability for internet publishers and distributors of material considered harmful to minors by requiring commercial entities to implement reasonable age verification measures when publishing or distributing such content online. The bill defines "material harmful to minors" as specified in existing law and mandates that websites containing more than 33.33% such content must verify users' ages using methods like government ID, digital identification, or bank account information. Commercial entities that fail to implement these age verification measures can be held legally responsible, with potential consequences including treble damages or $10,000 (whichever is greater), attorney fees, court costs, and injunctive relief. The bill specifically prohibits age verification services from retaining or sharing personal identifying information of users attempting to access the content. Importantly, internet service providers, search engines, and cloud service providers are exempt from liability if they are merely providing access and do not create the content. The legislation is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, and it applies to commercial entities engaged in commerce in Pennsylvania or purposefully targeting the state's market.

Business and Industry

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1513