HB 693 Maryland House of Delegates · 2026 Regular Session

Civil Actions - Distribution of Obscene Material to Minors

HB 693 creates a legal pathway for minors or their parents to sue commercial websites that knowingly distribute obscene material online to minors. It requires these entities to use reasonable age verification methods (like government ID or commercial systems) to confirm users are 18+ before accessing such content and prohibits retaining any user identifying information after verification. The bill excludes news organizations and internet service providers from these requirements. If a commercial entity violates these rules, affected individuals can seek damages for minors accessing obscene material or for improper retention of personal data. This law directly impacts websites hosting adult content and aims to protect minors from exposure to obscene material online.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 2, 2026 Last action Feb 5, 2026
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Total actions
2
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0
Committee
1
Feb 2, 2026
Committee
First Reading Judiciary
lower
7 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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