The U.S. Supreme Court has permitted Texas to enforce a law that mandates app stores to verify the ages of users and obtain parental consent for minors seeking to download applications. This decision allows the state to proceed with the enforcement of the measure while a legal challenge is ongoing.
The law, which is formally known as Senate Bill 2420, was passed in 2025 and requires operators of app stores, including major platforms like Apple and Google, to confirm users' ages. It also stipulates that parental or guardian consent is necessary for anyone under the age of 18 to download apps or make purchases within those apps.
Furthermore, app developers must categorize their products based on age groups: those under 13, ages 13 to 15, ages 16 and 17, and adults aged 18 and older.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has expressed support for the law, stating it is a significant step toward safeguarding children online. However, the measure faces opposition from the Computer and Communications Industry Association and Students Engaged in Advancing Texas, who argue that it infringes on First Amendment rights.
They contend that requiring personal data for internet access is akin to needing identification to enter a bookstore.
