TX SB2420

Requires app store owners to verify users' ages using commercially reasonable methods and categorize them as "child" (under 13), "younger teenager" (13-15), "older teenager" (16-17), or "adult" (18+)

Mandates that minors' app store accounts be affiliated with a verified parent or guardian account, with parental consent required for each individual app download, purchase, or in-app purchase

Requires app developers to assign age ratings to their software applications and in-app purchases, provide content descriptors explaining the ratings, and notify app stores before making significant changes to terms of service, privacy policies, or monetization features

Exempts emergency services apps (9-1-1, crisis hotlines) operated by government entities or nonprofits from parental consent requirements, as well as standardized testing apps for college admissions

Establishes violations as deceptive trade practices under Texas law, with protections from liability for app stores and developers who use widely adopted industry standards consistently and in good faith; takes effect January 1, 2026