Consumer protection; filter requirements on Internet enabled devices, penalties for violation
Impact
The legislation is significant in modifying state laws regarding internet safety and device standards. Manufacturers found to be in violation of the filter requirements could face civil liability, which includes penalties for allowing minors to access obscene material. Specifically, the bill outlines potential damages that a parent or legal guardian could recover in the event of a violation, which emphasizes accountability for manufacturers and reinforces protections for children using such devices.
Summary
House Bill 167 mandates that manufacturers of internet-enabled devices, such as smartphones and tablets, implement a filter to prevent minors from accessing obscene content. The bill specifically requires that all devices activated from January 1, 2025, onwards must have a filter that is automatically enabled for users identified as minors during device activation. Additionally, only users with a password can deactivate or reactivate this filter. This initiative is framed as a consumer protection measure aimed at safeguarding children in the digital space.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between protecting children and the implications for manufacturers. Critics of the bill may argue that such regulations could impose undue burdens on device creators, potentially increasing costs or limiting available technology. The bill raises questions about the practicalities of enforcing such measures and the potential for overreach into personal privacy, particularly concerning how age verification and password protections are managed.
Relating to consumer protection; to require certain manufacturers of Internet-enabled devices to activate existing filters to restrict access to certain material; to provide for a cause of action; to provide civil penalties.
Internet-enabled devices; creating the Save Our Children Act (SOCA); requiring Internet-enabled devices to be equipped with content filters. Effective date.
A bill for an act relating to requirements for filters on mobile devices activated in the state, providing for civil liability for manufacturers of mobile devices for certain violations, and including penalties.