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California Passes AB-1856 For Open-Source Relief Over Age Verification
TL;DR
California's AB-1856 has passed, providing crucial exemptions for open-source software from age verification requirements, easing compliance for developers. This legislation specifically protects Linux distributions and package managers.
✦ Why It Matters
Review your open-source projects to ensure they align with the new exemptions under AB-1856.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the exemptions for open-source software under AB-1856.
- Review your software licensing to ensure compliance with new regulations.
- Prepare for the January 2027 implementation of age verification for non-exempt software.
- Stay informed about legislative changes affecting software distribution.
Full Summary
California's Digital Age Assurance Act raised concerns about its impact on open-source software, particularly regarding age verification requirements. In response, AB-1856 was introduced and has now passed, amending the original act to include specific exemptions for open-source platforms.
Notably, the bill clarifies that entities distributing software under open-source licenses, such as Linux and BSD, are not considered 'operating system providers' and thus are exempt from age verification. Additionally, it specifies that software components not offered as standalone applications through covered application stores are also exempt.
The California Assembly approved the bill with a unanimous vote of 69-0. For software not exempted, the original act will take effect on January 1, 2027, mandating age collection during device setup and age-bracket signals for applications.