Supreme Court allows Texas app age verification law to take effect

The Supreme Court on Monday allowed Texas to enforce a law requiring mobile app stores to verify users’ ages and obtain parental consent before minors can download applications.

The law was passed last year as part of a broader effort to address online safety concerns for children. It has faced opposition from technology industry groups and students who argue the measure could violate First Amendment rights.

The Supreme Court allowed the law to move forward through an emergency appeal without issuing an explanation, and there were no noted dissents. The decision does not resolve the broader legal challenge but allows Texas to enforce the law while the case continues through the courts.

Technology industry groups, including the Computer & Communications Industry Association, which represents companies such as Apple and Google, argue the law could restrict young people's access to a wide range of online content.

Texas officials argue the law protects children by giving parents more control over digital privacy, data collection, and online activity.

The decision follows similar legal battles over online age verification requirements in other states. The Supreme Court previously allowed Mississippi to enforce a social media age verification law while challenges continued.

The Texas law is broader, applying to all apps available through mobile app stores rather than only social media platforms.