HB 4412
Require certain websites to utilize age verification methods to prevent minors from accessing content
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate online content by requiring certain websites to implement age verification methods. It establishes liability for publishers and distributors of sexual material harmful to minors, defining what constitutes such material and outlining reasonable verification processes. The bill includes exceptions for news organizations and establishes a five-year statute of limitations for civil actions related to violations.
Key provisions
- Requires websites to verify the age of individuals accessing certain materials.
- Defines ‘sexual material harmful to minors’ and ‘obscene material’ according to contemporary community standards.
- Establishes liability for publishers and distributors who fail to implement age verification.
- Creates a cause of action for individuals harmed by the access of minors to prohibited material.
- Sets a five-year statute of limitations for civil actions.
- Grants the Attorney General authority to bring injunctions and seek civil penalties.
- Authorizes the Office of Technology to develop rules for implementing the bill.
- Specifies that internet service providers are not liable for hosting material if they are not the creator.
Who is affected
- Websites and online platforms
- Publishers and distributors of online content
- Minors
- Parents and guardians of minors
- Internet service providers and hosting entities
Notable changes
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