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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.