Ohio legislators have introduced a new bill in what they claim is a bid to increase online protection for minors. If passed, it would legally mandate age verification on pornography websites and criminalize underage users who falsify their age.

The bipartisan House Bill 295 (HB295), spearheaded by Republican state Rep. Steve Demetriou of Bainbridge Township, resembles verification laws embraced by seven other states. Yet, it’s not all smooth sailing for such legislation. Some states have seen major adult sites limit access in response to similar laws.

HB295 mandates the use of commercial age verification systems. These would compel Ohio residents to verify their age using government-issued IDs or personal documents like mortgage or employment records.

Webmasters who neglect to install such systems or retain user data over 30 days could face a third-degree felony charge, potential prison time, and significant fines. Moreover, the legislation empowers civilians to initiate civil lawsuits against non-compliant websites.

Although its worth noting, they don’t explain who would pay for the installation of these 3rd party age verification systems, which cost as much as $1 – $1.50 per user.

On the flip side, minors caught accessing these sites using fabricated information could be hit with a fourth-degree misdemeanor, facing fines and potential jail time.

Demetriou defended his bill, emphasizing the reported mental health effects on adolescents who consume pornography. “The intention isn’t to criminalize children but to shelter them,” he remarked.

The bill goes beyond age checks. It intends to outlaw the creation and distribution of “deepfake” pornographic content showcasing individuals without explicit consent. Demetriou highlighted an unsettling incident involving a doctored video of Twitch gamer QTCinderella.

He’s modeled his proposal after successful legislation from states such as Arkansas, Louisiana, Montana, and Texas, with each bill receiving overwhelming bipartisan support. HB295 already boasts 23 co-sponsors.

Yet, the bill’s future remains uncertain in the predominantly Republican Ohio General Assembly, especially considering its potential constitutional challenges. Other states have faced legal pushback, citing First Amendment infringements and privacy violations.

Representing the adult entertainment sector, the Free Speech Coalition has been particularly vocal in its opposition. Their director, Mike Stabile, labeled HB295 a “profoundly unconstitutional bill,” predicting a judicial roadblock before its potential enactment. Stabile criticized the bill’s broad language, foreseeing potential censorship beyond adult content.

HB295’s potential implications on major players in the adult industry, like Pornhub, remain to be seen. They’ve previously restricted access in states with comparable laws, directing users to unregulated platforms.

Demetriou remains open to suggestions on HB295, acknowledging possible tweaks in its content. “We’re aiming for perfection and are eager to harness the committee process for clarity,” he concluded.