Supreme Court Upholds Texas Law on Porn Age Verification

(No Ratings Yet)

Loading...

The US Supreme Court has upheld Texas’ ability to enforce age-verification requirements on pornographic websites, dismissing a challenge from an industry-led group arguing against the law’s constitutionality.

Want to know if you’re earning what you deserve? Find out with LawCrossing’s salary surveys.

Background

The Supreme Court’s decision, issued without explanation or public dissent, allows Texas to maintain its law, which mandates age verification for accessing adult content online. The law has already led to the shutdown of major sites like Pornhub within the state. The Free Speech Coalition, representing the porn industry, initiated a legal challenge, seeking to halt the law’s enforcement while awaiting a potential appeal hearing.

  

What

Where

Search Jobs

Whether you’re a recent law school grad or an experienced attorney, BCG Attorney Search has the job for you.

Impact and Legal Arguments

Several other states have recently passed similar legislation. Critics argue that Texas’ law, requiring viewers to verify their age with identification, poses privacy concerns and may dissuade adult users from accessing such content. They also point out its selective enforcement, exempting certain platforms like search engines and social media sites despite hosting explicit material. The law targets websites with over a third of their content deemed harmful to minors.

Stay up-to-date without the overwhelming noise. Subscribe to JDJournal for a curated selection of the most relevant legal news.

Legal Proceedings

The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals allowed the provision to take effect, overturning a previous injunction. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton defended the law, citing precedents permitting states to regulate the dissemination of pornography to minors. Notably, the law also mandates that sites display warnings about the health risks associated with pornography, though this aspect is not under consideration by the Supreme Court.

Knowledge is power, and knowing your earning potential is no exception. Check out LawCrossing’s salary surveys to gain valuable insights.

Conclusion

With the Supreme Court’s decision, Texas can continue enforcing its age-verification law on pornographic websites, despite ongoing legal challenges. The case remains relevant amid broader debates over internet regulation and free speech.

Case Reference: Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, 23A925.