Alaska2026Passed Legislature

HB46

App Store Accountability Act

Last scannedSep 20, 2026, 12:32 AM

In one sentence

This law requires app stores and developers in Alaska to verify the age of users starting January 1, 2026, and obtain parental consent before minors can use or purchase apps.

Requires app store providers to verify a user's age using a commercially reasonable method for individuals located in Alaska.
Mandates that parents give verifiable permission before their children can access the app store, download apps, make purchases, or use specific features.
Creates five specific age categories: child (under 13), teenager (13 to under 17), older teenager (17), young adult (18 to under 21), and adult (21+).
Requires developers to provide tools that let parents set daily time limits on app use and view usage metrics.
Allows the state department or a parent to sue for violations, which can result in fines up to $10,000 per violation if brought by the court.

The law does not specify exactly which methods count as a 'commercially reasonable' way to verify age.
It is unclear how the state will handle enforcement if an app store provider operates outside of Alaska but serves Alaskan users, though the text applies to individuals located in the state.

Plain language

Verifiable parental consent: Proof that a parent, verified to be at least 18 years old, has agreed to let their child use an app or make a purchase.
Age category: A group based on age defined by the law: child (under 13), teenager (13-16), older teenager (17), young adult (18-20), and adult (21+).

Official record

Validated

APP STORES, PARENTS, AND MINORS An Act relating to minors; and relating to the distribution and use of electronic applications.

Official activity