The bill titled "An Act relating to the regulation of platforms for the sale and distribution of software applications for mobile devices" introduces a new Chapter 121 to the Texas Business & Commerce Code. This chapter establishes definitions for key terms such as "app store," "minor," and "personal data," and outlines the responsibilities of app store owners regarding age verification and parental consent. App store owners are required to verify user ages when accounts are created, categorize users by age, and obtain parental consent for minors before allowing downloads or purchases. Additionally, app stores must display age ratings for applications and provide developers with access to user age category information.

The bill also places responsibilities on software application developers, mandating them to assign age ratings to their applications and notify app stores of any changes to terms of service or privacy policies that could impact user data or ratings. Developers must implement systems to verify user ages and comply with consent requirements for minors. The legislation aims to protect personal data and safeguard minors from inappropriate content. It allows parents or guardians to initiate civil actions against app store owners or developers for violations, entitling them to various forms of relief, and classifies violations as deceptive trade practices, providing additional remedies under consumer protection laws. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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