Texas’ new app store age verification law could soon force Apple, Google, and others to verify users’ ages and obtain parental consent reshaping how millions access apps in the state.
A new bill, Senate Bill 2420, could soon make it a legal requirement for app stores to verify the age of users before allowing downloads or in-app purchases. If someone is under 18, the app store would also need to get parental consent.
This move would make Texas the second U.S. state to pass a law of this kind, following closely behind Utah. Utah’s App Store Accountability Act officially kicked in on May 7, 2025, making it the first state to hold companies like Apple and Google responsible for verifying user age.
Senate Bill 2420 aims to create more accountability in how digital platforms handle minors. The idea is to put parents back in control by preventing kids from downloading certain apps or making purchases without permission. The bill covers all major app stores and could apply to any company offering apps in Texas.
Right now, most app stores rely on self-reported age, which is easy to fake. The proposed law would change that. It requires a more robust verification process to confirm a user’s age, and parental approval would need to be formally obtained and recorded. This could mean changes in the onboarding process for millions of users.
Supporters of the bill argue that it’s a much-needed step toward protecting kids online. They point to concerns like exposure to harmful content, addictive app features, and unauthorized spending. With growing scrutiny on how tech companies handle user data and engagement, the bill has gained momentum quickly.
Critics say the bill may overreach and complicate app usage for families. Some argue that mandatory age checks and consent could limit access to harmless educational or entertainment apps. Others are concerned about how companies will store this new data and whether it opens the door to privacy issues.
If passed, app developers and platform operators would need to act fast. The law is expected to apply to both new users and existing ones, meaning sweeping changes in user experience and data collection practices. Companies that don’t comply could face penalties or risk being banned from offering apps in the state.
Tech firms have not publicly opposed the bill, but it’s likely they’re watching closely. In Utah, some app developers scrambled to adjust to new regulations. If Texas passes Senate Bill 2420, it may signal a wider national trend. States like Florida and Arkansas are also considering similar laws.
At the heart of it all is the growing pressure on Silicon Valley to prioritize user safety, especially for minors. Whether it’s regulating screen time, data usage, or purchases, lawmakers are no longer waiting for tech companies to self-police. Texas may be next in line to push that change.
For now, all eyes are on the state legislature. If Senate Bill 2420 becomes law this week, it’ll mark a significant moment in the ongoing debate over tech regulation and digital responsibility.
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