The proposed bill establishes a new chapter in Title 19 RCW aimed at enhancing the protection of children online. It defines key terms such as "digital service," "digital service provider," "known minor," and "personal identifying information." The bill outlines the responsibilities of digital service providers, particularly regarding the collection and processing of personal information from users, especially minors aged 16 and under. It mandates that digital service providers must verify the age of users creating accounts and obtain express consent from a parent or legal guardian before allowing known minors to create accounts. Additionally, it restricts the collection of personal information from minors to what is necessary for providing the service and prohibits the use of precise geolocation data and targeted advertising involving unlawful material.

Furthermore, the bill requires digital service providers to implement strategies to mitigate minors' exposure to harmful content, including self-harm, substance abuse, and online bullying. The Attorney General is granted the authority to investigate violations and enforce compliance, with civil penalties of up to $10,000 for each violation. While the bill does not create a private right of action, it allows parents or guardians of affected minors to seek declaratory or injunctive relief against non-compliant digital service providers. The act is titled the "Washington Protecting Children Online Act" and includes provisions for its severability in case any part is deemed invalid.