Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB603

Introduced
4/9/25  

Caption

In computer offenses, providing for Internet protections for minors.

Impact

If enacted, SB603 will have considerable implications on how online content is managed and distributed, particularly with regards to minors' access to potentially harmful material. The law holds commercial entities accountable for violations relating to age verification and the distribution of inappropriate content. Entities that fail to comply may face legal action, including liability for damages resulting from minors accessing such material, thus encouraging a more responsible approach to online safety.

Summary

Senate Bill 603 seeks to amend Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by introducing provisions focused on providing Internet protections for minors. This bill establishes stringent regulations for commercial entities operating websites that contain material deemed harmful to minors. Specifically, it mandates these entities to implement reasonable age verification methods before allowing access to their content, defining harmful material in detail to ensure clarity in enforcement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB603 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that enhancing protections for minors online is a necessary step in safeguarding children's well-being in an increasingly digital environment. They see it as a proactive measure that acknowledges the significant risks posed by unrestricted access to harmful content. Conversely, critics may express concerns regarding the practicality and privacy implications of rigorous age verification processes, questioning the feasibility of enforcing such measures without infringing on users' rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between regulating harmful online content and upholding freedom of expression and privacy concerns. Critics point out that putative challenges in defining what constitutes harmful material could lead to overreach or the suppression of legitimate content. Additionally, the implementation of age verification systems may raise concerns about data privacy, particularly regarding how user information is handled and stored by commercial entities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1313

In computer offenses, providing for Internet protections for minors.

PA HB2143

In computer offenses, providing for liability for Internet publishers and distributors of material harmful to minors; and making an editorial change.

PA HB2529

In computer offenses, providing for social media platforms; and imposing a penalty.

PA SB563

In computer offenses, providing for the offense of ransomware; and imposing duties on the Office of Administration.

PA SB22

Providing for protection of minors on social media; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2017

Providing for protection of minors on social media; and imposing penalties.

PA SB1213

In sexual offenses, further providing for the offense of unlawful dissemination of intimate image; in minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children and for the offense of transmission of sexually explicit images by minor; and making editorial changes to replace references to the term "child pornography" with references to the term "child sexual abuse material."

PA HB323

In other offenses, further providing for the offense of invasion of privacy.

PA SB37

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for learners' permits and for examination of applicant for driver's license; in rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting text-based communications and providing for prohibiting use of interactive mobile device; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle; in enforcement, providing for data collection and reporting relating to traffic stops; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2660

In computer offenses, providing for artificial intelligence; and imposing a penalty.

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