In Senate Committee·Last action 435 days ago

Online porn sites would have to check users' ages before showing minors adult content

Officially: SCREEN Act

Many online porn platforms would have to use real age-check technology before users can see content harmful to minors. The bill also limits how age-check data can be used and lets the Federal Trade Commission enforce the rules.

Where it stands

Sitting in Commerce

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

The bill applies to online services that regularly make harmful-to-minors content available for profit. These “covered platforms” must be interactive computer services, meaning websites or apps that let users access online content, and they must operate in commerce.
The bill defines “harmful to minors” in two ways. It uses a three-part test for sexual content and also includes federal definitions of obscenity and child pornography.
Covered platforms would have to check users' ages starting one year after the bill becomes law. They must use technology that blocks minors from harmful content.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

Where your representatives stand

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The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Protecting Children: Supporters say the bill is crucial for shielding kids from harmful content that can affect their mental and emotional development.
Government's Role: They argue that the government has a responsibility to protect children, and this bill is a modern way to do that.
Technological Advances: Proponents believe that current technology makes age verification feasible and effective.

✕Arguments against

First Amendment Concerns: Critics worry that the bill could infringe on free speech by making it harder to access legal adult content.
Privacy Risks: Opponents are concerned about the amount of personal data that would be collected and the potential for breaches.
Implementation Challenges: Some argue that verifying age online is difficult and could require sensitive information like government IDs.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in Senate

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Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

Latest: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. (2/26/2025)

FEB 26

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Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

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Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

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House Review

Sent to House for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Online porn sites would have to check users' ages before showing minors adult content

Where your representatives stand

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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