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Texas Enforces Age Verification for App Downloads by 2026

5/29/2025

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Summary

Abbott Mandates Age Verification

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has taken a bold step towards online safety by signing a law mandating Apple and Google to verify users' ages for app downloads, starting January 1, 2026. This means minors will need parental consent for downloads and in-app purchases, joining a wave of states prioritizing child protection in the digital realm amid stalled federal initiatives.

Summary

KOSA Strengthens Protections

The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) seeks to bolster online protections for children by mandating a "duty of care" from digital platforms. However, recent changes have weakened mental health safeguards and removed requirements to combat online bullying. As the bill re-emerges in May 2025, it confronts hurdles in the House amid ongoing debates about free speech.

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Abbott Mandates Age Verification

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has taken a bold step towards online safety by signing a law mandating Apple and Google to verify users' ages for app downloads, starting January 1, 2026. This means minors will need parental consent for downloads and in-app purchases, joining a wave of states prioritizing child protection in the digital realm amid stalled federal initiatives.

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