Illinois Law Mandates OS Age Verification, Including Linux
TL;DR. Illinois passed HB5511, requiring operating system providers to implement age verification and an age-bracket signal for apps by 2028. - The law, initially targeting social media, broadly defines OS providers to include open-source projects like Linux. - Unlike other states, Illinois offers no exemption for open-source software in this age-verification mandate. - Penalties range from $7,500 per affected child to potential $50,000 per violation.
- Illinois HB5511 (Public Act 104-0664) signed into law on July 31.
- Mandates age declaration and age-bracket signal from 'operating system providers' to apps by January 1, 2028.
- The law applies to all internet-connected OS, commercial or nonprofit, with no open-source exemption.
- Enforcement is handled by the Illinois Attorney General, with significant civil penalties.