The US Supreme Court is gearing up to hear a case on Wednesday regarding Texas‘ age verification law that puts restrictions on access to adult websites, according to a CNN report.
The case, brought by the adult entertainment industry, challenges the law on constitutional grounds, arguing it violates privacy rights and freedom of speech.
In 2023, a federal judge struck it down, citing concerns that it would infringe on personal privacy. However, the Fifth Circuit appeals court ruled in favour of Texas, stating the law was constitutional as it aimed to protect minors from explicit content.
Over the past two and a half years, numerous states have enacted age verification laws, backed by conservative groups, including those linked to Project 2025, a policy blueprint in anticipation of Trump’s second term, said CNN.
These laws have resulted in some major adult websites, including Pornhub, blocking users from specific states rather than dealing with the high cost of implementing ID-checking services.
While supporters of the law argue it’s a step towards protecting children, critics say it places a significant burden on adult users’ privacy and could lead to the erosion of free speech.
The new laws have led to an increase in the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), as people in affected states seek ways to bypass the restrictions.
While some adult websites, like Pornhub, have expressed their desire to protect minors, they also argue for alternative solutions, such as parental controls and integrated age verification within operating systems, reported CNN.
