- California lawmakers are considering an exemption for open-source operating systems from the age-bracketing requirements of AB 1043 due to public pressure, but concerns remain about threats to speech, privacy, and security.
- AB 1856 expands the age-bracketing regime from operating systems and app stores to include web browsers and websites, increasing constitutional harms to users despite some relief for open-source developers.
- An amendment to AB 1856 exempts open-source operating systems from age data collection, offering partial relief, but ambiguities persist regarding commercial use and application scope.
- EFF opposes AB 1856 because it broadens AB 1043's scope, potentially leading to more age verification, invasive data collection, and barriers to lawful speech without addressing core privacy and anonymity issues.
- The bill has passed the Assembly and moves to the Senate, where EFF will advocate for amendments to narrow AB 1043's impact and enhance user protections against age-gating harms.