The Electronic Frontier Foundation calls on Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to veto House Bill 5511. This law would force strict age checks on nearly all internet devices and services. It risks limiting young people’s access to key information and online communities.
The Illinois legislature passed House Bill 5511, which creates broad age restrictions on internet hardware, software, and services. The Electronic Frontier Foundation says the bill is flawed despite good intentions. It would require platforms to verify ages at the device level, creating new barriers for everyone online.
Young users often turn to the internet for education, health resources, and support networks. The new rules could block or delay their access to these tools. Experts warn that such measures may push minors toward unsafe alternatives while failing to protect them effectively.
The group asks Governor Pritzker to reject the bill before it becomes law. They argue that better solutions exist to balance safety and open access. Lawmakers should focus on targeted protections rather than wide device controls that affect all users.
Original Author: Hayley Tsukayama | Source: EFF
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