U.S. Senator Mike Lee introduced the App Store Accountability Act, aiming to empower parents and hold app stores responsible for protecting children from harmful content. Representative John James has introduced a similar bill in the House.
Senator Lee highlighted the lack of accountability for app stores, stating, “For too long, Big Tech has profited from app stores through which children in America and across the world access violent and sexual material while risking contact from online predators.” The legislation focuses on age verification and parental control.
Congressman John James emphasized that companies exposing children to adult content should be accountable. He compared Big Tech with corner stores, saying, “The App Store Accountability Act holds Big Tech companies to the same standard as local corner stores.”
The bill outlines provisions for parental consent before app downloads and emphasizes accurate age ratings. It prohibits sharing sensitive data and any actions limiting free speech.
Support for the bill extends across parties, with 88% of parents backing such requirements, according to recent polling. Over 100 organizations have endorsed it through the Digital Childhood Alliance.
Melissa McKay of the Digital Childhood Alliance stated the importance of the bill, noting, “App stores are the chokepoint, and if we don’t require age checks and consent there, we are failing families.”
Andrea Sparks from Not on Our Watch pointed out the lack of transparency over app downloads and user agreements for minors. Clare Morell from The Ethics and Public Policy Center asserted the necessity of parental consent for app downloads.
The legislation includes measures for privacy-protecting age verification and linking minor accounts to parental accounts. It also aims to prevent data exploitation related to age verification processes.
Andrea Davis of Better Screen Time emphasized the bill’s impact, stating, “The App Store Accountability Act doesn’t ask for the impossible—it demands the necessary minimum: age verification and real parental consent.”
The bill introduces annual certifications and a complaint mechanism to ensure effectiveness and close loopholes, offering a safe harbor for compliant app stores.
