require age verification before an individual may access an application from an online application store, publicly available website, electronic service, or other online platform.
HB 1237 requires app stores and developers to verify the age of users before they can access applications, with specific rules for children under 16. App stores must determine age, obtain parental consent for minors, provide digital age signals (e.g., 13-15 or 16-17), and enable parental controls for time limits and activity monitoring. The law directly affects app stores (manufacturers), app developers, and users under 16, applying to platforms distributing apps like mobile app stores. Violations could result in $5,000 civil penalties per affected child, enforced by state attorneys general.
Bill status
passed
3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
House Passage
Feb 2026
Senate Passage
Governor
Introduced Jan 29, 2026
Last action Feb 19, 2026
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the House by voice vote (no roll call recorded).
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
3
Key actions
1
Committee
0
Feb 19, 2026
Lower · Passed
State Affairs Tabled , Passed, YEAS 10, NAYS 0
lower
Jan 29, 2026
Introduced
First read in House and referred to House State Affairs H.J. 179
lower
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
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