Oregon 2023 Regular Session

Oregon Senate Bill SB257

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/13/23  

Caption

Relating to verification of age of majority as a condition of resident individual's access to pornography; prescribing an effective date.

Impact

If passed, SB257 would amend existing laws regarding access to pornography, creating an obligation for websites to implement reliable age verification processes for users within the state. This could lead to widespread changes in how digital content is regulated, with potential repercussions for both users and providers of adult content. The bill could also influence the technological framework surrounding internet access, possibly paving the way for more stringent online regulations across various forms of media to ensure compliance.

Summary

SB257 aims to establish verification of age as a prerequisite for resident individuals accessing pornography. The legislation reflects a growing concern over the exposure of minors to explicit content online. By implementing stricter measures for age verification, proponents highlight the bill's intent to protect minors from inappropriate material, primarily through digital platforms. The effectiveness of these proposed verification methods and their implications for privacy and data security have sparked significant discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB257 appears to be divided. Supporters view the measure as a necessary step in safeguarding children and consider it a proactive approach to a pressing societal issue. In contrast, critics raise concerns regarding the enforcement of age verification, citing issues related to privacy, potential overreach into personal data management, and the effectiveness of such measures. There is also apprehension about how the bill might affect freedom of speech and access to information more broadly.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the practicality of enforcing the age verification requirements and the potential burden this could place on content providers. Opponents argue that requiring age verification could lead to excessive monitoring and data collection, which could undermine privacy rights. Furthermore, the bill’s reliance on technology to ascertain age raises questions about who will bear the responsibility for compliance and the potential for adverse impacts on legitimate adult content providers. The debate hinges on balancing the need for protection against the implications for personal freedoms and the operational challenges for website owners.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR SB1570

Relating to verification of age of majority as a condition of resident individual's access to pornography; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2689

Require pornography websites to utilize age verification methods to prevent minors from accessing content

OR HB4867

Require pornography websites to utilize age verification methods to prevent minors from accessing content

OR HB2112

Internet pornography; minors; age verification

OR HB3533

Relating to required disclosures of fees during certain transactions; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2268

Relating to health care cost sharing arrangements; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2889

Pornography; publication; consent; verification; violation

OR SB1221

Child pornography; modifying terms. Effective date.

OR HB2656

Internet pornography; age verification

OR HB3327

Relating to data generated by uses of mobile electronic communication devices; prescribing an effective date.

Similar Bills

CA AB528

Criminal procedure: child pornography.

UT SB0057

Sexual Abuse Material Amendments

LA HCR100

Declares the proliferation of pornography among Louisiana children to be a public health hazard

LA SCR111

Requests school governing authorities to distribute information regarding the public health risks associated with pornography and to encourage parents to install Internet filters on home computers.

AK HCR12

Pornography As Public Health Crisis

CA AB621

Deepfake pornography.

AK HB254

Block Pornography To Minors; Social Media

LA SB250

Requires school governing authorities to provide parents with certain information relative to the health risks associated with pornography. (8/1/18) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)