Civil Actions - Failure to Restrict Distribution of Sexual Material Harmful to Minors

This Maryland bill establishes civil liability for commercial websites that knowingly distribute sexual material harmful to minors without implementing age verification systems. The law requires such sites to verify that users are at least 18 years old using government-issued ID, commercially reasonable methods, or digital identification before allowing access to the content. Additionally, the bill prohibits age verification providers from keeping any personal identifying information about individuals after they attempt to access the material. Parents or legal guardians can sue for damages if a minor accesses this content due to a site's failure to verify age, while the law exempts internet service providers and protects news organizations from these requirements.