California's Digital Age Assurance Act Clears Assembly with Unanimous Vote, Heads to Governor

California's Age Verification Bill for App Stores Clears Assembly with Unanimous Vote A California bill aimed at ensuring minors' online safety has taken a significant step forward after clearing the Assembly with a unanimous 58-0 vote. The Digital Age Assurance Act (AB 1043) now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk, where it will await his signature. The legislation, introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, requires operating system and app store providers to verify users' ages before they can download apps. This verification process does not involve photo identification but instead relies on the platforms providing tools for parents to indicate their child's age during device setup. The information collected will be used to steer kids toward age-appropriate content and screen time. Google, Meta, and other tech giants have expressed support for the bill, with Google's Senior Director of Government Affairs Public Policy, Kareem Ghanem, calling it "one of the most thoughtful approaches we've seen thus far to the challenges of keeping kids safe." He emphasized that this is a shared responsibility among all stakeholders. The California bill comes on the heels of similar legislation in Utah and Texas, which have been criticized for posing potential privacy risks. These laws have also faced opposition from major tech companies like Google and Apple. Background on the issue shows that minors' online safety has become an increasingly pressing concern. With more children spending time online, there is a growing need to ensure they are protected from age-inappropriate content and cyberbullying. The Digital Age Assurance Act aims to address these concerns by placing the burden of age verification on app store providers. This approach has been met with support from some tech companies, who see it as a more effective way to balance online safety with user convenience. As the bill moves forward, experts are weighing in on its implications. "This legislation is a step in the right direction," said Dr. Kathryn Montgomery, a leading expert on children's online safety. "By requiring age verification, we can help prevent minors from accessing content that could harm them." The California bill now awaits Governor Newsom's signature, which is expected to be forthcoming. If signed into law, it will take effect in 2024. In related news, the Senate has expressed interest in exploring similar legislation at the federal level. As the debate over online safety continues, one thing is clear: the need for effective age verification measures is becoming increasingly pressing. The Digital Age Assurance Act's passage marks a significant milestone in California's efforts to protect minors online. As the bill moves forward, it remains to be seen how other states and countries will follow suit. *Reporting by Engadget.*