Summary

Requires online platforms that make content harmful to minors available to verify users’ ages and block minors from accessing that content. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the rule using its existing powers, and platforms must publish how their verification works, protect the data they collect, and keep it only as long as needed. The FTC must consult independent experts, issue guidance, and conduct audits and rulemaking to set what evidence platforms must provide to show compliance. A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report will review the impacts of age‑verification technology. Compliance begins one year after enactment, and the bill includes a severability clause so the rest stands if any part is struck down.

Key Points

• Online platforms that make content harmful to minors available must verify users’ ages and block minors.
• Compliance starts one year after enactment; methods are chosen by platforms but must meet standards.
• Platforms must publish their verification approach and protect, minimize, and limit retention of verification data.
• The FTC enforces violations as unfair or deceptive practices under the FTC Act.
• The FTC must consult experts in child safety, privacy, verification tech, and security when setting standards.
• FTC guidance is due within 180 days of the law taking effect and is nonbinding.
• The FTC will audit compliance and set rules on what evidence platforms must provide.
• Platforms may use third‑party verifiers but remain responsible for compliance.
• GAO must study and report on the impacts and effectiveness of age‑verification measures.
• A severability clause preserves the rest of the law if any part is struck down.

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