The U.S. Supreme Court has allowed a Texas law to be enforced that requires app stores to verify the ages of users and obtain parental consent for minors to download apps. This decision means that the law, known as Senate Bill 2420, can be implemented while a legal challenge is ongoing.
Passed in 2025, the law mandates that app store operators, including major companies like Apple and Google, confirm users' ages and secure consent from a parent or guardian before anyone under 18 can download apps or make in-app purchases. Additionally, app developers must label their products according to age appropriateness for four categories: children under 13, teens aged 13 to 15, older teens aged 16 and 17, and adults aged 18 and older.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton hailed the ruling as a win for child protection online. However, the law has faced opposition from the Computer and Communications Industry Association and Students Engaged in Advancing Texas, who argue it infringes on First Amendment rights. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is set to hear arguments regarding the law's constitutionality in early August, following a previous ruling that had blocked its enforcement. The Supreme Court's recent order allows the law to remain in effect until the appeals court reaches a decision.
