California Bill Forces Apple, Google To Flag Every User's Age
Assembly Bill 1856 from Buffy Wicks passed the Senate 39-0, the Assembly 69-0, and awaits the governor's signature.
- Every device must sort its owner into one of four age brackets starting January 1, 2027.
- App stores relay that bracket to developers, who then count as knowing the user's age.
- The Attorney General can fine developers $2,500 per child, $7,500 for knowing violations.
Why it matters: Sacramento outsources age verification to Apple and Google, making them the gatekeepers of every phone in the state.
California Legislature - AB-1856 Bill Status ↗ · Sep 5, 20269/5/26