Bill > HB2112

This bill establishes requirements for online platforms to verify the age of users before providing access to sexually explicit content, aimed at preventing minors from viewing harmful material. The legislation defines "sexual material harmful to minors" as content that appeals to prurient interests, contains graphic sexual descriptions or depictions, and lacks serious artistic or scientific value. Commercial entities hosting websites with more than one-third sexually explicit content must implement age verification methods, such as using digital identification, government-issued ID, or commercially reasonable age verification systems that rely on transactional data. Websites must also display health risk notices about adult content and provide contact information for substance abuse helplines. The bill requires that no identifying user information be retained during age verification. Enforcement would be handled by the Attorney General, who can bring civil actions with potential penalties up to $10,000 per day for violations, with additional fines up to $250,000 if minors access inappropriate content. The bill includes protections for news organizations and internet service providers and is explicitly designed not to infringe on constitutional rights. Known as the "keep our children safe act," the legislation aims to create a legal framework for protecting minors from accessing explicit online content.

Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2112&Year=2025&Initiative=false