Linux Developers Seek Exemptions From State Age Verification Laws

Colorado lawmakers introduced a bill in January that would require operating systems to collect users' ages during device setup and pass that information to app developers. The measure, SB26-051, was modeled on a California law and aimed to let developers restrict age-inappropriate content for children.

_OS Linux distribution. He spent weeks engaging with state lawmakers to explain the challenges the requirement would create for open-source projects. On April 23, Richell testified before a Colorado House of Representatives committee. He stated that open-source software provides broad access to computing education and that age-gating systems could limit its educational value.

The bill passed on May 1 with an exemption for open-source operating systems. Richell said the change creates a template that he hopes other states will follow.

California enacted AB 1043 last year, requiring operating systems and app stores to collect ages starting January 1, 2027. The Linux Foundation and individual developers have raised concerns about compliance costs for volunteer-run projects and conflicts with open-source principles of minimal data collection.

Michael Dolan, SVP of strategic programs at the Linux Foundation, said protecting children online is important but that age verification mandates on open-source systems create new privacy risks while remaining easily circumvented. If an open-source developer adds age-gating features, others can create a fork that removes them.

Questions remain about liability in such cases.