The "App Store Accountability Act" aims to enhance protections for minors using apps by establishing specific requirements for app store providers and developers in South Carolina. The bill mandates that app store providers determine the age category of users and obtain verifiable parental consent before allowing minors to download or use apps. It also requires app stores to provide mechanisms for parents to block inappropriate content and to clearly display age ratings and content descriptors for apps. Additionally, the Department of Consumer Affairs is tasked with issuing guidance to ensure compliance with these requirements, and an advisory committee will be formed to improve transparency regarding app age ratings.

Enforcement of the act will be overseen by the Attorney General, who can impose fines for violations and pursue civil actions to ensure compliance. Parents whose children are harmed by violations of the act can also bring civil actions against app store providers or developers. The bill emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in safeguarding minors online while allowing adults unrestricted access to content. The provisions of the act are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, following the issuance of guidance by the Department of Consumer Affairs.