Show-Me State Times

Attorney General Andrew Bailey has announced a pioneering rule that mandates commercial pornographic websites to implement dual-layer age verification for users. This regulation requires age confirmation both on the website and on the device being used, aiming to enhance protections for minors while safeguarding adult privacy. The rule, set to be published in the Missouri Register on May 1, is an effort to make Missouri the safest state for children, as stated by Bailey.

“This is about making Missouri the safest state in the nation for kids,” said Attorney General Andrew Bailey. “Missouri is leading the way by going beyond surface-level protections, implementing a two-layer verification process that ensures minors are kept out—and adult privacy is respected.”

The rule is pioneering in nature for having verification at two levels: both online and device-specific. Additionally, all identifying data will be deleted immediately after verification to prevent misuse, a measure aimed at protecting privacy. The rule will also enforce existing state statutes against the distribution of pornography to minors.

Research indicates that children are often exposed to pornography at a young age, with the average age being between 11 and 12, impacting their mental health and development. Missouri State Representative Sherri Gallick emphasizes the urgency of protecting children from online pornography, stating, “Raising a child is the most important thing anyone will ever do. As adults and mentors, we have a moral obligation to protect children from harm, particularly from bad actors and dangerous situations."

Attorney General Bailey also highlighted that the regulation requires companies to verify user age, aligning them with other age-restricted industries. Failure to comply may restrict their operations in Missouri. “This action forces companies to take responsibility," Bailey added, “and aligns them with other age-restricted industries. We are taking action to make sure Missouri families are not left at the mercy of big tech and international porn conglomerates. If they want to distribute pornography in Missouri, they must prove their users are adults. If they don’t, they won’t be allowed to operate here.”

The Attorney General’s Office has set up a public complaint process and enforcement mechanisms to ensure adherence to this new rule.