ME LD1873

Requires business entities that knowingly publish or distribute obscene matter on websites or apps to verify users are 18 or older through government-issued ID or transactional data verification methods

Prohibits businesses from retaining any identifying information after age verification is completed

Exempts bona fide news broadcasts, public interest content, internet service providers, search engines, and cloud hosting services that are not responsible for creating the obscene matter

Creates civil liability for violations, allowing individuals to sue for damages plus court costs and attorney's fees when minors access obscene content or when businesses improperly retain identifying data

Authorizes the Attorney General to bring enforcement actions for unfair or deceptive practices and to adopt rules establishing complaint procedures and penalties