Senate bill sets national age-verification rules for app stores and developers

What does this do?

S 4349 requires app stores to determine whether users are adults or minors at sign-up and share that age information with app developers when a user or parent consents. App stores must also give parents tools to block their child from downloading or using certain apps. Developers must use the age data to provide minors a more restricted experience, obtain parental consent before allowing minors to access content flagged as inappropriate, and are prohibited from showing personalized ads to anyone identified as under 18.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects parents of minors, children and teenagers who use apps, app store operators such as Apple and Google, and the companies that build apps. The Federal Trade Commission would be responsible for enforcing the law.

Why does it matter?

Violations would be treated the same as unfair or deceptive business practices under FTC enforcement, which can result in significant financial penalties. The bill would create a single national standard by overriding any existing or future state laws covering the same ground, and businesses would have two years after enactment to build the required systems.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• FTC enforces violations
• Significant fines possible
• No set penalty amount