Saralnama
Bluesky has blocked access to its app from Mississippi IP addresses following the state's new social media age verification law, HB 1126, which requires users to verify age and obtain parental consent for minors. The company cited the law’s broad scope, privacy concerns, and the significant resources needed to comply as reasons for the block. The law, which went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to block it pending ongoing legal challenges, mandates that Bluesky track which users are children, a requirement the company said would fundamentally change user access. Unlike the UK’s Online Safety Act, which Bluesky complies with and which restricts only certain content, Mississippi’s law would block all users unless they provide sensitive information. The Supreme Court’s decision included a concurring opinion from Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who noted the law likely violates the First Amendment but allowed enforcement as plaintiffs had not shown sufficient harm. Bluesky emphasized its commitment to child safety and will continue monitoring the situation. The block applies specifically to Bluesky; other services on the AT Protocol will decide independently on access. (Updated 23 Aug 2025, 09:15 IST; source: link)